Fall has arrived in Massachusetts, and with it has come changing leaves, hockey, cooler weather, and a lot more rain. Unfortunately, wet weather leads to more hazardous road conditions, especially during particularly heavy downpours. Though New Englanders are accustomed to harsh weather, even a light rain can make roads harder to navigate, especially for irresponsible drivers.
At DiBella Law Offices, P.C., we have seen time after time how unsafe practices during wet weather can lead to a traffic collision. That’s why we’d like everyone to remember these helpful safety tips so they can stay safe during fall downpours.
Why Wet Roads Are Precarious
Driving in rain is common and may not be the most pressing safety concern for many drivers, but even a light drizzle can significantly increase the risk of an accident. Dangers you find in wet weather include:
- Reduced visibility: When it’s raining, it’s more difficult to see the road in front of you. It is imperative for drivers to have the appropriate windshield wipers and headlights. These don’t only make it easier for you to see the road ahead but make it easier for other drivers to see you when their visibility is reduced.
- Reduced traction: Even a thin layer of water on the roadway can greatly reduce tire friction, causing cars to slide. It is common for oil from the vehicles that drip onto roads to build up, and during the first occurrence of a rain, those surface oils are loosened and create a slick driving surface that can reduce traction even further.
Give us a call today to discover how we can assist you.
Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain
With fall in full swing and winter right around the corner, it’s important for all drivers to remember that even a light mist can result in tragedy if a driver is not careful. The following tips can help keep you and your family safe next time you are caught out driving in the rain:
- Leave room in front and slow down: Driving slowly and allowing more space between you and the car in front of you is a great way to avoid possible accidents. Wet roads increase the distance it takes to stop, so the slower you go, the more time you have to stop safely and react to potential pitfalls.
- Don’t use cruise control: Most modern cars have a cruise control feature. Cruise control works well in dry conditions, however, when used on a wet road, it can result in loss of control of the vehicle and cause a crash. If you are the person behind the wheel, focus on controlling the vehicle and pay attention to the traffic and activity present around you.
- Steering out of a skid: If you feel the car begin to enter a skid, continue to look and steer in the direction you wish your car to go. The last thing you should do is panic and slam on the brakes. Slamming the brakes or turning the steering wheel to over-correct the skid can result in you losing control of the vehicle and can potentially result in an accident.
Car Accident in Massachusetts? Call DiBella!
Wet weather lend itself to traffic collisions, and even a minor crash can result in injuries and economic damages that can throw your life off course. If you or a loved one has been involved in a traffic accident for any reason, you need the help of an experienced Burlington car accident lawyer. The veteran legal team at DiBella Law Offices, P.C., can take your case, and help you get your life back together.
Call us at (781) 262-3338 to schedule a no-obligation consultation. Get DiBella Law Offices, P.C., in your corner today!
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