Safe Driving Tips For Stormy Weather & Heavy Rain
Many people assume that inclement weather accidents only occur during the winter when we are navigating snow and ice. However, bad weather car accidents occur throughout the year. Driving in heavy rain and stormy weather can be just as dangerous as driving on snow and ice. Below are several tips to help you and your family stay safe on the road during storms and heavy rains.
Tips for Driving in Heavy Rain and Storms
- Always Use Your Headlights – Heavy rain can make it very difficult to see and to be seen. Using your headlights helps you see better, but it also makes your vehicle more visible to other drivers.
- Reduce Speed – Just a little bit of water on the road can cause slick surfaces that increase the risk of hydroplaning. When your vehicle hydroplanes, your tires have little to no contact with the road surface. To reduce the risk of hydroplaning, slow down. If you do hydroplane, remain calm and follow the instructions provided by AAA.
- Avoid Driving Through Standing Water – It is impossible to judge the depth of standing water; therefore, avoid driving through puddles if possible. You do not want to risk hitting a deep hole and causing a tire blowout.
- Leave Early – If you know you will be driving in stormy weather or heavy rains, leave early to allow extra time to drive more slowly. If you do not feel rushed, you will be calmer and less likely to make driving mistakes.
- Allow Extra Room – It takes longer to stop on wet pavement. Therefore, allow extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you to give you the extra time you need to stop or avoid a collision.
- Keep Both Hands on The Wheel – When driving in bad weather, keep your hands on the wheel, and your mind focused on driving. Avoid distractions so that you can focus solely on the task of driving.
- Avoid Driving Behind or Beside Large Vehicles – Larger vehicles are more susceptible to high winds; therefore, driving close to them could increase your risk of a car accident. In addition, these vehicles can splash a lot of water on your windshield obstructing your ability to see.
Car Accidents in Heavy Rain
Do not assume that you cannot file an accident claim because your crash occurred in heavy rain. In most cases, the driver of the other vehicle did something that caused the crash such as driving too fast, being distracted, or failing to yield the right of way. Bad weather is not a complete defence to a car accident claim.
The weather can be a contributing factor; however, if the other driver was negligent, reckless, or careless, the driver is still liable for any damages. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your lost wages, medical bills, property damage, emotional suffering, and physical pain. An experienced Ontario car accident lawyer can help you determine if you have a claim against the other driver or another party.
Call for a Free Consultation With An Ontario Car Accident Lawyer
Call our 24/7 injury hotline at 1-800-567-HURT or visit our website to speak to someone now to schedule your free no-obligation case evaluation. The team of lawyers at Diamond and Diamond have experience handling a variety of motor vehicle accident claims including car accidents, motorcycle crashes, and large truck accidents.