Although many people in the San Francisco Bay Area opt for alternative means of transportation, there are still a large number of drivers on the road every day. It is not uncommon to see an accident on the highways or smaller streets of the city. While accidents can happen at any time, the chances of being involved in an accident are dramatically increased when the weather conditions are unfavorable. For this reason, it is especially important to drive carefully during rainy weather and keep watch out for dangerous drivers.
Protect Yourself in Rainy Weather
Although you are unable to control the behavior of the drivers around you, it is possible to minimize the risk of an accident by practicing these safety measures when the weather outside turns to rain. When you encounter adverse weather conditions, take these suggestions into consideration.
- Drive slower – One of the most common causes of an accident during rainy weather happens when the driver loses control of their vehicle. When driving at higher speeds, or even the speed limit, it can be more difficult to maintain control of a car. In addition to this, the time it takes to come to a stop is increased when you are driving faster.
- Avoid large puddles on the road – Hydro-planning, which describes the event when the wheels of a car skid across a body of water and lose contact with the road, is a serious issue during heavy rain. One way to protect yourself and minimize the risk of an accident is to avoid areas on the road where there is standing water. Just be careful to watch for other vehicles before you try to skirt around a large puddle.
- Turn your lights on – When clouds cover the sky and rain is falling, visibility is often very diminished. For this reason, turning on your running lights can help other vehicles spot you. Staying visible in bad weather is one way to protect yourself from a potential accident. When other drivers can’t see you, you are in immediate danger. If needed, use your hazard lights as well.
- Know when to stop driving – Sometimes it’s just best to get off the road. When the rain is coming down so hard that you’re unable to see the road, there is a very good chance that other drivers are experiencing the same thing. Slow down and exit the road and eventually, the rain will lessen, and you will be able to resume your journey.
Speak with a San Francisco Car Accident Lawyer Today
At The Cartwright Law Firm, our team of attorneys understands the difficulties and complications that can follow a car accident. Regardless of how an accident occurs, it is a good idea to speak with an experienced lawyer after a car accident. Our firm of San Francisco car accident lawyers is dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your specific situation, so don’t hesitate to call us today at (415) 851-6486 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to speaking with you.
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