Anderson Law Firm

Fort Worth: Safety Tips For Driving In The Rain

The rain is here and projected to be here for the next week.  Finally some precipitation! I am glad for this rainfall, but there are many concerns that one must be aware of when they get behind the wheel. It is a fact that car accidents increase when it is raining. I believe that people forget the basics they learn in drivers’ safety or from a test at the MVD so, I have put together a couple tips for the wet roads ahead of you.

• Brake earlier and with less force than you would normally. Not only does this increase the stopping distance between you and the car in front of you, it also lets the driver behind you know that you're slowing down. Also, be more meticulous about using turn signals, so that other drivers know your intentions, and take turns and curves with less speed than you would in dry conditions.
• If you start to hydroplane, don't brake suddenly or turn the wheel, you might spin into a skid. Release the gas pedal slowly and steer straight until the car regains traction. If you must brake, tap the brake pedal (unless you have antilock brakes, in which case you can put your foot down).
• Don't use cruise control. If you hydroplane, there's the chance your car could actually accelerate. Cruise control also allows drivers to be less vigilant and to take their foot away from the pedals, not a great idea when reaction time is so important.
• Turn on your headlights
• Don't attempt to cross running water. All-wheel drive isn't going to be much help if your vehicle is being pushed sideways.
• If it is raining hard enough where you cannot see, pull over and wait it out.
•  Allow for more travel time.

Information and commentary is provided by Dallas/Fort Worth Wrongful Death Attorney Mark Anderson. The Anderson Law Firm can be reached in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900 or in Dallas at 214-327-8000. For more information regarding any type of car accident, please fill out our contact form online for a free consultation.