With heavy precipitation expected in the Knoxville, you might be wondering if car accidents are more likely in the rain than on a snowy day? Surprisingly, National Highway Safety Administration studies have shown that 46% of weather related car accidents occur when driving in the rain, while only 17% when it is snowing. One reason for this may be that, at least here in East Tennessee, winter weather is at least somewhat uncommon. So when winter weather is present, we tend to avoid going out. However, car accidents are more likely in the rain because rain is a relatively common occurrence so we don’t typically think twice about it. This leads to an important reason why car accidents are more likely in the rain, many drivers don’t make the appropriate adjustments in their driving style to properly handle potentially hazardous road conditions.
Remember that roads are slickest at the start of a rain storm and wet pavement has less traction for your tires to grip. Here are some driving tips to avoid trouble driving in the rain.
Car Accidents are More Likely in the Rain, so Take It Slow
Some estimates indicate that wet roads have about one-third less traction than dry roads. With reduced traction, we all need to slow down and resist the urge to get home quickly because of the weather as this could result in a car accident. So, reduce your speed as is appropriate for the road conditions.
Car Accidents are More Likely in The Rain, so Give Other Drivers More Space
Remember with reduced traction, you will not be able to stop as quickly as you would have on a dry surface. As such, adjust to the conditions and allow more space between your car and those in front of you. This will be somewhat dependent on the traffic intensity, but try to give yourself a lane you know you can escape quickly into if traffic stops suddenly ahead of you.
Car Accidents are More Likely in the Rain, so Let Your Technology Do Its Job
If you have ABS or an anti-lock braking system, remember that this technology is designed to help you maintain steering control when braking hard on a slick surface. Apply the break with steady consistent pressure and continue to steer. If hydroplaning occurs gently take your foot off the gas and continue to look where you want to go, and try to avoid steering until your front tires regain traction.
Even though car accidents are more likely in the rain, we hope with these safe driving tips you can avoid a car accident. But, If you are injured in a car accident by another driver’s carelessness, you need to take it seriously and call The Lawyers of Brown and Roberto, serious lawyers who know how to win.
Give us a call at (865) 691-2777 or contact us through our website The Lawyers of Brown & Roberto to set up a free consultation.