The Rain is here . . .

After quite a long drought, the summer rains are finally here Florida. This means that there will be an increase in car accidents caused by the rain and an increase in accident related injuries. Not only does water on asphalt decrease a tire’s traction to the road, a driver also can find it difficult to see through the rain. One of the first things you can do to help prevent being involved in a car accident because of rain, is to make sure that your car’s tires, windshield wipers and brakes are in good condition. Here are some other tips when driving in the rain:

• Drive slow to take the weather conditions into account
• Keep both hands on the wheel
• Give yourself enough space between your car and the car in front of yours so that you can brake slowly to avoid hydroplaning
• After you drive through a puddle, tap your brakes slowly to remove the water
• Make sure your headlights are on so that other driver’s can see you
• If you don’t want to be one of those people who has to abandon their car in water that is up to its doors, avoid driving through waters if you do not know the depth of the water.
• Don’t drive in running water that could sweep your car away
• Be particularly careful during the first few hours of a rain storm if it has been quite a while since the last rain. All of the oil and grease deposited by cars on the road can cause the road to be slippery during the beginning of a rain storm or during light rain

Also, sometimes underneath large puddles or areas of standing water there are deep and large pot holes that you can’t see. Driving into a deep and large pothole can cause you personal injuries and property damage to your car.

Finally, If you find that you cannot see well enough to drive safely, pull over at a safe location until the rain eases and you can continue driving safely.