Full Notification

Driving in the rain can be a scary thing, especially at night. It’s often difficult to see out of the window, and oncoming traffic lights can be blinding. Here are some tips to avoid getting into an accident while driving in the rain.

1. Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times! avoid all distractions, such as cell phones or even the radio. Stay focused on what is in front of you. Glance at your rear and side view mirrors so that you get an 360 degree over view what is happening. Be aware of hazardous conditions.
2. Turn on your headlights. This will make it easier for you to see what is in front of you; thus, preventing accidents.
3. Keep a minimum of five car lengths from the car in front of you. You never know what other drivers are going to do or what could happen to you! If that feels too close or too far a rule of thumb is 1 second of following distance per 10 miles per hour. That holds true especially in bad weather.
4. Drive at or below the speed limit. Maintain a speed that you can see far enough in front of you to appropriately make driving decisions.
5. Be aware of the condition of your vehicle. Verify your lighting equipment, and windshield wipers are in good repair. Know the condition of your vehicle’s tires. The may lose their ability to grip wet pavement and channel water out as the tread wears out.
6. Avoid hydroplaning. This is where your vehicle travels on top of the water and has NO or very little contact with the ground. Your traction is reduced significantly. To safely get out of a hydroplaning situation let off the gas and steer straight or slightly in the direction you must go. Do not make sudden motions and remain calm.
7. Avoid flooded roads. Never drive through standing or flowing water in a road way. Flooding the engine can cause the engine to stall, and deep water can actually float your car and take it off the roadway. Adhere to all traffic signs, warnings and barricades.
8. Turn on the defroster if the windshield begins to fog.
9. Be aware that brakes can be affected by water. Wet drums lose stopping power after driving through deep water.
10. Watch and listen for emergency vehicles. Remember, emergency personnel need to respond to a call for assistance in a timely manner. Their response time is affected by the same road and driving conditions. So please do your part and pull to the right.
11. Beware of driving in the rain at night. Motorcycles or even other dark-colored cars can be camouflaged amongst raindrops on windows and mirrors.
12. Watch out for debris in the roadway such as potholes, rocks or mud. Pot holes are sometimes camouflaged by the wet roads. Sever tire damage can occur or loss of control of your vehicle. If you see mud or rock debris, drive with due caution. Southern California is prone to flash floods. Especially in mountain terrain.

Remember to be courteous to others, and drive safely.