In Cleveland, you can expect one thing in Spring and early Summer and that is rain. After dealing with Winter driving conditions for several months, wet pavement doesn’t seem too bad.
However, according to the Federal Highway Administration, wet roads were responsible or 74% of weather-related accidents in the last decade, while snow and sleet caused only 17% of weather-related accidents.
The following are 4 specific reasons wet-weather driving is incredibly dangerous:
1. Water isn’t the only thing on the roads
Oil and other fluids from automobiles constantly drip onto the roads. Mixed with rain water, these lubricants create a thin, slippery film that reduces traction and can cause even the most experienced drivers to skid.
2. Flash flooding is an unexpected danger
Even a simple continuous rain can cause flooding in certain locations. Poorly maintained roads, or uneven payment can cause pools of water that can be difficult to see and navigate.
3. Drivers aren’t as cautious of wet conditions as they should be
Cleveland drivers are used to harsh weather conditions, so used to harsh weather conditions that we often take for granted how dangerous weather conditions can be. While we may slow down and drive more cautiously when there’s snow on the ground, we usually don’t feel like we need to slow down for wet pavement.
4. Certain driving features don’t work as well in the rain.
Using cruise control on a wet surface can be incredibly dangerous. Cruise control on wet pavement can make your car accelerate to a high speeds, so skidding and/or hydroplaning while in cruise control can cause serious damage.
As much as we’d like to, we can’t avoid the rain these next few months in Cleveland. All you can do is protect yourself from the dangers of taking the road in the middle of a rain storm.
These wet-weather driving tips will keep you safe as the rain continues to fall:
- Check the tire tread depth and pressure in your tires frequently.
- Make sure you always have working windshield wipers.
- Replace all headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and taillights regularly.
- Always make sure your headlights are on when they should be.
- Drive slower and always make sure you leave room between you and the car in front of you.
- Watch out for puddles and uneven pavement, as well as potential flash flood areas.
- If your car skids, don’t panic. Release the gas, and steer the car in the direction you want the front of the car to go. Whatever you do, don’t slam on the brakes.
- If you hydroplane, don’t panic. Ease off the gas until you feel traction in your car. Don’t brake or turn suddenly.
If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident, call me at 1 (800) 556-4769, and we can discuss your case. As your personal injury lawyer, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over 34 years, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus & Cincinnati, Ohio.” You can reach Tim by email at tmisny@misnylaw.com or call at 1 (800) 556-4769.
