The recent heavy rains and snow melt have led to dangerous road conditions and record levels of flooding in the South Bend area. Drivers need to exercise extreme caution to stay safe while traveling in these wet conditions.
At Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak, our car accident attorneys in South Bend want to help provide you with the knowledge you need to stay safe while traveling in heavy rain and flood conditions. Below are important safety tips for driving on the wet roads.
If you were injured in an accident caused by another driver in this extreme weather, we can assist you in pursing compensation for your injuries and damages. Schedule a free consultation with our experienced legal team today.
Call us today at (574) 444-0741 to schedule a free consultation.
Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain
Whether you are heading out in the rain or there is a sudden rainfall in the middle of your drive, these tips will help keep your ride as smooth and safe as possible:
- Ahead of travel, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Tires should be properly inflated with plenty of tread. Windshield wipers need to be replaced if they are not clearing windows fully. Headlights, brake lights, tail lights and turn signals should all be working properly.
- Make yourself visible by always using your headlights in the rain. Even if it is daytime, your headlights will help other motorists see you better.
- Do not use cruise control as it can cause loss of vehicle control. When roads are wet, cruise control may limit your ability to brake quickly if you lose traction or face other hazards because your feet are not as ready to react instantly.
- Reduce your speed and leave more room between your vehicle and other vehicles. Doing so will give you more time to respond to hazards. If you need to slow down or stop, brake earlier than you normally would.
- Hydroplaning occurs when tires rise above a thin layer of water and lose contact with the road. This is a serious risk in a downpour, so you need to allow more room to respond in order to prevent an accident. Avoid braking hard or making sharp movements. Drive in the path of vehicles in front of you to help your tires maintain contact with the road.
- If you begin to skid, do not slam on your brakes. Continue to steer your vehicle in the direction you wish to go, and ride out the skid.
Driving During Flood Conditions
St. Joseph County is prone to flooding, so it is especially important to be aware of flooded roads and to avoid them if possible. Important things to keep in mind include the following:
- Know the weather conditions before you head out. Listen for flood and flash flood warnings in the area where you will be traveling.
- If traveling across a flooded road, move slowly and steadily through the submerged area to avoid losing control of your vehicle.
- If water has covered the roadway markings, it is unsafe for driving. As little as three inches of water on the road’s surface can cause your vehicle to lose traction and control. Driving through submerged areas can damage your vehicle – if water comes up underneath your car, your engine could stall in the submerged area, leaving you in a dangerous position.
- Be extra vigilant while traveling at night, as flooded areas are more difficult to see.
- If you live or work in a flooded area, do not make unnecessary trips. Save errands for when roads clear up, and discuss work-from-home options to avoid commuting to work in unsafe conditions.
- If a street is marked closed, do not try to travel on it. Local officials have closed the roadway for a reason, and if you travel beyond barriers, you risk getting stuck in a flooded area.
- If you are stuck in your vehicle in flood waters, stay calm and call 911. If you abandon your vehicle, be cautious of the flow of water, as it can sweep you off your footing. Get to higher ground right away.
- Watch for downed power lines. Do not travel through an area where electrical current could be passing through the water.
Contact a Lawyer for Help Now
Even in poor weather, negligent drivers can be held liable for causing an accident. Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak’s South Bend auto accident lawyers are available to help you pursue the compensation you deserve after being injured in a wreck. Our legal team will investigate your case, support your claim that another party caused the accident, and work to recover maximum compensation for you.
Request a free, no obligation consultation today and find out what legal options are available for recovering compensation. We charge no upfront fees, and payment is only owed if we help you collect compensation.
Call (574) 444-0741 today.
