As many California drivers know, with the spring often comes wet weather. Across the nation, wet weather causes approximately 1.2 million crashes every year. However, there are certain tips and tricks that drivers can employ to keep themselves and others who share the roadway with them safe when driving in the rain or on wet roads.
Why is Driving on a Wet Road Dangerous?
The biggest hazard of driving on wet roads is the loss of traction that inevitably occurs. When roads are dry they have a rougher, more textured surface that provides something for your tires to grip onto. When a road is wet, the surface of the road becomes smoother because all of the gaps in the pavement fill up with water. This results in your traction being reduced to as much as half of what it would be on a dry road.
What Should You Do When Driving on a Wet Road?
- Keep a Safe Distance from Other Vehicles – One of the simplest things that a driver can do to avoid causing a crash on wet roads is to maintain a safe amount of space between other vehicles. Remember: it can take longer to slow down on wet roads! On dry pavement, it is recommended that drivers keep at least two seconds between vehicles; in wet weather, you want to keep at least four seconds of space between your car and the car in front of you.
- Avoid Potholes (and Hydroplaning) – Avoid hitting potholes. If you hit a water-filled pothole going too fast you run the risk of losing all of your traction on that tire. This can cause your car to spin out and lose control. If a pothole cannot be avoided, you should slow down as much as possible and do not hit your brakes as you drive over the pothole.
Wet Weather Driving FAQ:
How do I get better traction on a wet road?
It’s recommended that drivers check the condition of their tires. If the tread on the tires is too low or if the tires are not properly inflated, the vehicle may have trouble stopping.
How do you stop skidding on a wet road?
If you happen to skid on a wet patch, you should not panic or slam on the breaks. Instead, you should continue to steer in the desired direction that you want to go. “Steering into” a skid can help your vehicle to correct without risking a rollover.
What is hydroplaning usually caused by?
Losing traction on a wet road (also known as hydroplaning) occurs any time your wheels encounter more water than they can scatter. Water gets pushed under the wheel, separating the tire from the surface of the road and resulting in loss of steering and braking abilities. This phenomenon can usually be caused by:
- Having poorly maintained tires
- Driving too fast for the weather conditions
- Changing direction suddenly or braking too suddenly
- Driving through a puddle or pothole that’s filled with water
- Driving in wet weather with cruise control on
What if I’m Hit by Another Driver in Wet Weather?
When a car crash occurs, the weather conditions will be considered a factor. However, if the driver was operating their vehicle in a reckless or negligent manner, a person who suffered injuries in the incident may have the ability to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver. An attorney may help the injured person seek compensation for the damages, such as medical costs and lost income.
If you have been injured by a negligent driver, reach out to our team of injury attorneys today! We serve the entire East Bay area and offer free initial consultations. Call (925) 275-5592 now!