Heavy Rains Hit San Diego; 5 Tips to Drive Safely in the Rain
Heavy rains came to San Diego today and will remain over the County for the next four days. As usual, this means more car accidents--including deadly accidents--in the area as drivers try to remember how to drive safely in the rain.
Our office always receives more calls about San Diego car crashes immediately after a heavy rain storm. However, we'd rather see San Diegans remain safe on the roads.
Here are five tips to drive safely in the rain:
1. Avoid skids and sliding by driving slower than usual. San Diego drivers are used to driving 70-80 mph on the freeway. Don't. Slow down, particularly in curves and heavier traffic.2. Don't steer or brake quickly. Use a slow, gradual touch. Quick movements can cause you to lose control over wet pavement.
3. If your car starts skidding in a fishtail, remain calm and take your foot off the gas pedal. Do not use your brake. Over wet pavement, your car can accelerate or steer but not both. By taking your foot off the gas and brake, the rear axle will come back in line.
4. Hydroplaning is a common problem that happens when the water in front of your tires builds up until your car is riding on top of the water rather than the pavement. To avoid hydroplaning, drive in the tire tracks of the car in front of you. If you find yourself hydroplaning, take your foot off the brake and gas pedal until you slow down enough so that your tires make contact with the pavement.
5. If you absolutely need to use your brake while hydroplaning, pump the brakes gently.
Stay safe on our San Diego roads over the weekend. If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a car crash on our wet highways, feel free to contact the Jurewitz Law Group at 888-233-5020 anytime for free advice and assistance.
