Summertime creates some absolutely picturesque thunderstorms that are a treat to watch from a porch as they roll in across the horizon. However, that might not be the case for those stuck on the roads and forced to battle the slick conditions that Mother Nature throws at them. Summer showers can be just as dangerous as snow and ice in the winter – which is why you should never underestimate a summer downpour while driving.
Here are 6 very important pieces of information you need to remember whenever you are caught in a summer storm.
- Drive at the speed you feel most comfortable with given the current weather conditions. By reducing your speed, you’ll have more time to react if another car loses control or you encounter a huge puddle.
- Most of the roads throughout Canada are made slightly higher in the middle of the road, with the sides sloping down to allow for water run-off. Avoid the side of the road, where deep puddles can form and can take hold of your wheel-well.
- Always allow for extra travel time. You don’t want to be in a rush – you’ll probably need to drive slower and traffic will also likely be moving slower.
- If the rain is coming down so hard that you can’t see anything – it is imperative to find a safe spot to pull over and wait for the downpour to stop. Turn on your hazard lights so other cars can see that you’re on the side of the road.
- You need to brake earlier and with less pressure than you’d use in normal conditions. Doing so will add more stopping distance between the driver in front of you and yourself. This will also give the driver behind a heads-up that you’re slowing down. It’s a good rule of thumb to keep more than three seconds of distance between you and the car you’re following in bad weather.
- Keep your distance from large trucks or buses – the spray from their tires can block your vision and make it extremely difficult to see. You should avoid passing them, but if you absolutely have to, make the pass as quickly as you safely can.
A car accident can have far reaching implications including severe injuries or even death, regardless of the type of accident. Our team of personal injury lawyers at Lancaster Chown & Welch LLP can help you no matter what.