Do you know how to drive safely in strong rain?

As one of our Pittsburgh readers, you know that the spring season is full of many twists and turns in regards to the weather. For example, rain and strong winds are extremely common throughout the area.

If you find yourself on the road when the rain begins to fall, you’ll want to make some changes to your driving technique. Here are a few things to do:

  • Slow down. Even if you do nothing else, you need to slow down until the weather improves. Yes, this may mean driving slower than the speed limit, but it can go a long way in keeping you safe.
  • Use your headlights. With your headlights on, it’s much easier to see the road ahead. It also allows other vehicles to more easily see you.
  • Beware of standing water. When your tires hit standing water at a high rate of speed, there’s a chance that they could lose contact with the road This is called hydroplaning.
  • Leave yourself more space. It can be a challenge to stop quickly in wet weather, so you don’t want to follow other vehicles too closely.

It’s never fun to drive in heavy rain, but you know this is something you’ll probably need to do every now and again.

If you find yourself part of an accident in inclement weather, move to the side of the road and call 911. If you’re injured, you’ll want to receive immediate medical attention, as this can help minimize the impact of your injuries. From there, focus on the cause of the accident and how to protect your legal rights.

Source: State Farm, “5 Tips to Remember for Driving Safely in the Rain,” accessed May 03, 2018