California is well-known for its mild weather and sunny, clear skies. However, the infrequent rain in cities like San Diego causes oil, dirt, and debris to accumulate on the roads for months, making them even more slippery on rainy days. Drivers may not be accustomed to driving in the rain, so it’s essential to exercise extra caution. Read on to learn about the risks of driving in bad weather and how to avoid rain car accidents.
9 Tips to Help Prevent Rainy Day Traffic Accidents
Rain causes thousands of car crashes in the US each year. Whether you’re an experienced driver, new to navigating San Diego’s streets, or unfamiliar with driving in adverse weather conditions, these tips can help keep you safe during a downpour.
1. Maintain Your Vehicle
A well-maintained vehicle is crucial for safe driving, especially in rainy conditions or before a road trip.
- Tires: Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated. Worn or underinflated tires can reduce traction on wet roads, increasing the risk of skidding.
- Windshield wipers: Check that your windshield wipers are in good working order. Replace them if they leave streaks or fail to clear the windshield effectively.
- Brakes: Have your brakes inspected regularly to ensure they are responsive and in good condition. Effective brakes are critical for stopping safely on slippery surfaces.
- Lights: Ensure all your vehicle’s headlights, brake lights, and turn signals function properly. Visibility is reduced during rain, and it’s important that others easily see your vehicle.
- Fluid levels: Check to ensure essential fluids, including brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and engine oil, are at optimal levels. Proper fluid levels contribute to overall vehicle performance and safety.
2. Check Weather Forecasts Before Driving
Before hitting the road, consider checking weather forecasts, especially during San Diego’s rainy season. According to the San Diego County Water Authority, much of the region’s participation occurs between December and March. Check to see if there are upcoming storms or heavy rainfall so you can plan your trip more effectively. If the forecast predicts severe weather, consider postponing non-essential travel.
3. Slow Down
If you must drive in the rain, drive slower. California Vehicle Code 22350 states that drivers must adjust their speed to match the road conditions. Reducing your speed is one of the most important adjustments you can make when driving in bad weather conditions. Wet roads can cause tires to lose traction, making it harder to control your vehicle. In the rain, the California DMV recommends driving 5 to 10 mph slower than the speed limit.
Driving slower gives you more space and time to identify and react to unexpected road hazards. In addition, slower speeds can help prevent hydroplaning, which can happen when tires lose contact with the road surface. Hyroplating can cause you to lose control of your vehicle, resulting in a more severe accident.
4. Increase Your Following Distance
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) recommends leaving extra distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you, especially on rainy days. Wet roads can double the distance required to come to a complete stop.
Extending your following distance gives you more time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow. Rear-end collisions are common in wet weather due to reduced visibility and slick road surfaces. Keeping a safe following distance is an effective way to help prevent weather-related accidents.
5. Use Your Headlights
Visibility is often reduced during rain, making it essential to use your headlights. Headlights help you see the road better and make your vehicle more visible to others.
California law requires you to use your headlights if snow, rain, fog, or other hazardous weather conditions warrant the continuous use of windshield wipers. Proper headlight use can prevent car crashes by ensuring that your vehicle is easily seen by others, especially in heavy rain or low-light conditions.
6. Avoid Using Cruise Control
While cruise control is convenient for maintaining a steady speed, it can be dangerous in wet conditions. When roads are slick, you may need to adjust your speed frequently, something cruise control can’t do automatically.
Additionally, if your vehicle starts to hydroplane, cruise control can cause it to accelerate, worsening the situation. For better vehicle control, it’s safer to manually manage your speed during rainy weather. This allows you to respond more quickly to changes in road conditions.
7. Be Extra Cautious of Pedestrians and Cyclists
Rainy weather reduces visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Vulnerable road users may be harder to see, especially if they are wearing dark clothing or if the rain is particularly heavy.
Additionally, pedestrians could behave unpredictably, such as darting across the street to avoid getting wet. As a driver, it’s essential to be extra vigilant in areas where pedestrians and cyclists are expected. Slow down, stay alert, and be prepared to stop suddenly to avoid potential rain car accidents.
8. If You Start to Hydroplane, Take Your Foot off the Accelerator
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between your tires and the road, causing a loss of traction. If you find yourself in this situation, the first thing to do is stay calm and avoid making sudden movements.
Take your foot off the accelerator to allow your vehicle to slow down naturally. Do not slam on the brakes, as this can cause your vehicle to skid. Instead, steer gently in the direction you want to go. By handling hydroplaning correctly, you can regain control of your vehicle and avoid an accident.
9. Turn Around, Don’t Drown
Flash floods are a real danger in San Diego during heavy rain; even a small amount of water can lead to big problems. The phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” is more than just a catchy slogan—it’s life-saving advice. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most passenger cars.
Never attempt to drive through standing water, as it can be deeper than it appears and may cause your vehicle to stall or be swept away. If you encounter a flooded road, it’s safer to turn around and find an alternative route.
What to Do After a Car Accident
When adverse weather conditions cause a car accident, knowing the steps to take to protect your rights is crucial.
- Check for injuries: Immediately check yourself and others involved for injuries. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location to ensure it is not in the path of oncoming traffic.
- Call the authorities: Report the accident to the police. Ensure you obtain a police report, which can be vital for insurance claims.
- Exchange information: Gather contact and insurance information with the other driver(s), including full names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and any visible injuries.
- Speak to witnesses: If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and if they are willing to provide a statement.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, seeing a doctor is advisable. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen significantly over time.
- Consult with an experienced car accident attorney: Determining fault in rainy-day accidents can be complex. However, an experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather compelling evidence and prove the other party’s liability.
Contact Our San Diego Car Accident Attorneys
Rainy periods substantially increase the risk of car crashes. Navigating the aftermath of a rain-related car accident can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies. However, a San Diego car accident lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and hold the responsible party accountable.
At Harbor Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping personal injury victims obtain justice. Our car accident attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, pursue fair compensation for your injuries and damages, and represent you in court if necessary. We offer a free consultation to inform you of your case’s viability and to review your legal options. Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation.