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Florida’s summer is right around the corner and with that comes daily rainstorms. Driving during these storms can be extremely dangerous. We’re sharing a few safety tips to help keep you and others around you safe!
So what makes driving in rain so dangerous? According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, rainfall is a prominent factor in nearly half of all weather-related accidents. The moisture from rain can cause your tires to lose traction. When the road gets wet, water mixes with dirt and other oils on the asphalt, making it harder for your tires to grip the road.
Rain makes everything slippery. Hydroplaning can happen if you are excessively speeding, quickly breaking or making a sudden turn. Aside from hydroplaning, rainstorms make it difficult to see clearly. It’s a good idea to replace your windshield wipers every six months to ensure they function properly.
Driving safety tips for rainstorms:
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Adjust your thinking. Be hyper-aware of those around you - how close you are to other cars, how close they are to you, etc. Giving yourself extra space might be the few extra seconds you need to avoid an accident. You might remember from drivers ed, you want to leave three seconds (four during rain) between you and the car in front of you.
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Drive slow. It might seem obvious, but give yourself extra time when driving in rain. Never rush to your destination and plan for traffic delays. Planning your route in advance helps too! Avoid looking at your phone for GPS directions if possible.
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Brake early. When roads are wet, it takes longer to slow down. Simply put, roads are slippery and braking quickly can cause you to slide.
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Turn your lights on. It’s illegal to drive with your windshield wipers on without using your headlights. Oftentimes, you’ll see drivers using their hazard lights during a storm - this is actually illegal to do and can cause confusion when cars are braking or signaling a turn.
Driving in a rainstorm doesn't have to be scary! Follow our tips to keep yourself safe this summer. Have Florida car insurance questions? Reach out to us! We are happy to be your go-to Kissimmee insurance agent.
