Driving on Wet Roads

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Always be alert and aware of your surroundings. Headlights on and keep a safe distance.

In Florida, we so often find ourselves driving in rainy conditions. Here are a few tips to help you stay as safe on the roads as possible!

1.Slow down.  You should drop to at least 15 miles per hour below the speed limit when driving in the rain. If on the highway and drop to a lower speed, move to the right lanes for slower traffic.

2.Increase following distance. Leave plenty of distance between you and vehicle front of you. It may seem like everyone sees it as an opening to get ahead of you, do not panic, and stay a safe distance.

3.Turn on headlights in the rain. It is the law. Do not use your high beams, though. If your wipers are on, then so should your headlights.

4.Do NOT turn on your hazard lights. It is illegal. When a driver sees your emergency lights on, they think your vehicle is stopped and may take evasive action to avoid your car. Although you may be trying to prevent a crash, having your emergency lights on in the rain can cause a crash. Hazard lights are for parked cars only. This could cause confusion for officers to find an actual emergency. Flashing hazard lights can also trigger a seizure by the driver behind you, if that driver has epilepsy.

5.Check your tire tread. Grab a penny and insert it head first into your tire's tread groove. If you can see all of President Abraham Lincoln's head, it's time to replace your tires.