Driving In The Rain: How To Handle It And Avoid Crashes

Let’s face it, even as much as we wish we can get away from the rain, we can’t. That also means we can’t get away from driving in the rain either. Many people, when they drive in the rain drive just at the speed limit and consider it slowing down. Everyone does it. However, even the slightest bit of rain can increase the chances of a car crash. It is important for drivers to realize this and be extra cautious when they get caught in the rain while driving.

According to a study conducted by the American Meteorological Society in April for 2019, it was found that “during precipitation, there is an increase of approximately 34% of the overall risk of a fatal car crash occurring”(American Meteorological Society Study). Something else that was also included in this study was that these risks are higher during the winter, and during morning rush hour. This study also found that unlike driving in the East Coast for example, people who drive in the Midwest or in the South tend to drive faster, due to it being less crowded. This being said, because of their residents driving faster, that is a direct correlation to the increased risk of fatalities in wet weather.

Driving in the rain can be deadly.

There are crucial things you should know before driving in the rain and to avoid crashes.

1. Slow down!

   While you should be sure to be driving the speed limit, it is not a bad idea to drive under it while in the rain. Your car's reaction time is reduced significantly when driving in the rain, so slowing down could be what saves you from getting into an accident.

2. Avoid puddles of standing water.

   Whether it be safely changing lanes or being able to carefully go around it, you should avoid this at all costs. It only takes a very small film of water for your car to be able to hydroplane, so you should be extra cautious when it is raining. It also gives tips on how to recover if you do end up hydroplaning because sometimes it is inevitable.

3. Do not brake while Hydroplaning.

   If you are hydroplaning, immediately take your foot off of the accelerator and to never use your brake. This can cause your car to go completely out of control. You should ease your foot off the accelerator and try to hold your wheel steady in the direction you were going.

4. Do not use cruise control in the rain.

   This relates to number 3. If your car is set to accelerate at a certain speed on the interstate and you hydroplane the car will automatically start gassing it to get up to the desired speed. This can lead to a horrible wreck. So, if you’re driving in the rain don’t use cruise control.

1. 1. Credit list to: Hydroplaning Explained

Driving in the rain can be scary. It is imperative for drivers to slow down as they are driving in the rain to reduce the risk of crashing and possibly harming others. If someone is unfortunately involved in a car accident due to someone unsafely driving in the rain and is injured, they may be able to seek compensation with the help of a personal injury attorney.

The Dixie Law Group is a personal injury law firm in Kentucky with years of experience involving car accident claims. Call us at 502-290-2397, and you will receive a 100% free consultation with an attorney to review your case.