Driving in Florida can be challenging, especially during the rainy season. The state is known for its frequent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, which can severely affect road conditions and increase the risk of car accidents.
Florida experiences a high amount of car accidents caused by rain each year. Wet pavement accounts for 70% of weather-related car accidents and rain directly causes 46% of these incidents, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Nationally, approximately 6,000 people are killed, and more than 440,000 people are injured in weather-related accidents every year.
Reduced Traction and Hydroplaning
When roads become wet, the traction between tires and the road surface decreases, making it hard to control a vehicle. Hydroplaning is a big problem, especially during heavy rain. Hydroplaning occurs when a film of water builds up between the tires and the pavement, causing the tires to lose contact with the road surface. With no traction, a driver has a hard time steering and braking.
Safety Tips to Avoid Car Accidents Caused by Rain
To minimize the risk of car accidents caused by rain, it is essential to follow these safety tips when driving in wet weather:
1. Prepare Your Vehicle
Maintaining your vehicle in good condition is crucial for safe driving, especially in rainy conditions. Regularly check your tires, including tire tread depth, to ensure proper grip on wet roads. Check windshield wipers for wear and replace when necessary to maximize visibility. Make sure all of your lights are working and your brakes are in good shape.
2. Slow Down in the Rain
Driving at a safe speed will cut the risk of car accidents caused by rain. Adjust your speed according to the road conditions. It’s OK to drive more slowly than the posted limit when road conditions aren’t good. Drive gently, avoiding sudden moves, including hard braking and accelerating.
3. Increase Following Distance
Maintaining an adequate following distance is essential in wet conditions. Allow more space between your car and the one in front of you. Leaving more room gives you more time to react and stop safely. The general rule is to maintain at least five seconds of following distance. This distance should be increased more in heavy rain or on highways where stopping distances are longer.
4. Turn on Your Headlights
Visibility is crucial when driving in the rain, both for your own safety and for other drivers to see you. Turn on your headlights, even during daylight hours, to improve visibility and make your vehicle more visible to others on the road. In Florida, you are legally required to use your headlights when it is raining.
5. Know How to Handle Hydroplaning
If your car starts to hydroplane, you need to stay calm. Easy on the brake and gas peddles, because sudden, panicked moves can make things worse. If you start hydroplaning, ease off the accelerator pedal and keep a firm grip on the wheel. Steer gently in the direction you want to go until your tires regain traction with the road surface.
Seeking Legal Assistance After Car Accidents Caused by Rain
Despite taking all necessary precautions, accidents can still happen. If you’ve been injured in one of the many car accidents caused by rain, you should talk to a personal injury attorney.
At the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm, we have a team of dedicated Orlando car accident attorneys ready to assist you. With convenient locations throughout Central Florida, including Orlando, Kissimmee, Apopka, Palm Bay, Ocala, and Haines City, we are ready to provide the legal representation you need. Call 407-846-2240 today for a free consultation.
