se habla español
757-838-1136
Driving in the Rain is More Dangerous Than You Think
Driving in the Rain is More Dangerous Than You Think
Many Virginia motorists know that weather can impact driving and increase the risk of accidents, but you might not realize the extent of the dangers until you review the data. The Federal Highway Administration (FHA) reports that around one in five crashes occur in adverse weather, and most of them are in rainy conditions. Approximately 70% of these happen on wet road surfaces, while 46 percent of accidents in bad weather occur while it is raining.
Driving in the rain is more dangerous than you think for various reasons, and many of them are related to negligence by other drivers. You have rights under Virginia law if you were hurt or lost a loved one, and a Hampton, VA, car accident lawyer can assist with the legal requirements. Plus, it is helpful to review some information about weather-related factors and tips on how to drive safely in the rain.
How Rain Affects Road Conditions in Virginia
Collisions are more likely in wet conditions because the tires struggle to gain traction on slick roads. Plus, deep puddles and flooding on roadways impair the tread’s ability to shed away water, increasing the likelihood of hydroplaning. Still, there are additional factors that increase the dangers:Â
- Not only are collisions more frequent in the rain, but they are also more severe. Drivers often lose control of the vehicle and cannot slow down.
- Some safety features are less effective in stormy weather, especially cameras and sensors. These devices are how braking systems function.
- Many motorists do not change their driving behaviors to account for the weather. Others are affected by a lack of visibility, leading them to apply hard brakes because they do not see an obstruction. Drivers end up skidding and sliding into other vehicles.
 Tips to Reduce Accidents in the Rain
One of the most obvious tips is to avoid trips during rainy weather, but this approach is not always possible or practical. When you have to drive in the rain, keep yourself and your passengers safe by following a few tips:
- Slow down, even if that means going well under the posted speed limit. Do not travel less than the minimum, however, as you pose a risk to other vehicles.
- When navigating around turns, ease into the curve instead of making abrupt movements.
- Allow for extra stopping time, which means increasing the distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.
- Avoid hard braking whenever possible, as you could lose control and be unable to maneuver with locked-up brakes.
- Double-check your windshield wipers to ensure they clear the glass and give you essential visibility.
Discuss Your Legal Options with a Virginia Car Accident Attorney
These tips help reduce the risk of auto crashes in the rain, but you cannot always prevent them when there are other negligent drivers on the road. To learn more about your remedies, please contact Hampton Injury Law PLC to schedule a complimentary case evaluation. A Virginia car accident lawyer will review your situation and explain how the laws affect your claim.
You May Also Like Other Posts
Awards & Affiliations
Contact Us
Free and
No-Obligation
Case Evaluation
In Person, Virtual, or Phone
757-838-1136
se habla español
se habla español
Free Consultation
Do you have a question about your legal matters?
Receive a free consultation by filling out the form below.
*Virginia Lawyers Weekly January 30, 2023 edition
Attorney Advertising. This information is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing certain contact information herein, you are expressly authorizing the recipient of this message to contact you via the methods of communication provided.
NUVEW | Copyright 2024 Website. All Rights Reserved | Accessibility Notice | Privacy Policy