2018 brought a significant amount of rain to Georgia, approximately 70 inches more than the state average. Rainy conditions increase the risk of automobile accidents, especially in urban and high traffic areas. Here are some safety tips for handling rain and the steps you should take if you’re involved in a crash.
If you’re driving in the rain, you should be aware of why the roads and highways are less safe. Rain increases the risk of a car accident for numerous reasons, including:
- Heavy rain and severe thunderstorms decrease visibility. This makes it difficult to see other vehicles, traffic signs, and obstacles in the road.
- Oil from vehicles mixes with rain and causes slick spots. As a result, it’s more difficult to control and steer your automobile.
- Not all drivers handle the rain well. Some drivers unnecessarily slow down, while others don’t slow down enough.
- Flash flooding can cause a vehicle to hydroplane. When this happens, it becomes easy to completely lose control of your vehicle.
Considering the dangers of driving in the rain, these are some practical steps you can take to stay safe. First, before getting in your car, make sure you’ve checked the following:
Tires. Make sure your tires have adequate tread and are not bald. Bald tires cannot handle slick road surfaces. If you need new tires, get them at your earliest convenience.
Wipers. Your wipers should be able to clean rain, dirt, and debris from your windshield. Tattered or worn wipers should be replaced.
Brakes. In general, your brakes need to be properly serviced from time to time. This is especially true when driving in the rain.
Headlights and tail lights. Your lights help you see and help others see you. Make sure burned out bulbs are replaced and that your lights stay clean.
These are some suggestions for avoiding an accident when you’re driving in the rain:
- Reduce your speed and let faster drivers pass you. Stay below the speed limit.
- Stay alert. Be aware of dangerous road conditions and traffic around you at all times.
- Use your headlights. Even in light showers, this helps you see better and ensures other drivers can see you.
- Maintain proper distance between you and other vehicles. Allow enough room between you and other drivers, and never tailgate.
- Stay in the middle lane if possible. By design, these lanes tend to be built higher to avoid standing pools of water.
In the unfortunate event that you are in an accident, it’s key to act quickly. First, call 911 to report the accident and to treat any injuries. Report information fully, accurately, and in detail. You will best remember an accident in the immediate moments after it happens. Give as many particulars about what occurred to the responding officer as you can, including the identities of everyone involved. And tell the EMT about all injuries and pain you’re experiencing.
Next, try to document as much hard evidence about the accident as possible. If you are able to safely do so, take pictures of your vehicle at the earliest possible time. Also take pictures of the accident scene, other vehicles involved, and the weather conditions. Once your car is moved and everything is cleaned up, these photos will prove helpful in establishing liability and damages. Make sure all vehicles involved are identified. A proper police report will have this information. If you can locate witnesses or any kind of surveillance video showing what happened, do so. If you need to consult a car accident lawyer these photos can greatly help your case.
Call a Georgia Accident Attorney to Get the Help You Need
Rainy conditions demand even more attention and care on the part of all drivers. Negligent drivers who cause accidents should be held accountable when their irresponsible actions hurt others. Once you’ve gotten the treatment you need and have started gathering evidence, your next step is to hire a car accident attorney. The lawyers at Schneider Hammers have been fighting for their clients’ rights for years. Speak to our team today.
