North Carolina’s stunning and eclectic landscape comes with some unpredictable weather conditions. While we don’t typically get the snowfall that states even a bit farther north get in the winter, a little snow can cause havoc on the roads when it does fall.
This is just one of the causes of wet, slippery and potentially dangerous roads. Rainfall is far more common and a year-round event. Severe storms are becoming increasingly common. Wet roads cause over a million crashes every year. Many of these – even those caused by other drivers — can be avoided by using simple precautions.
Practice defensive driving
If it’s raining, snowing or anything wet is falling from the sky (or even if the rains are over but the roads are still slick or have puddles), go into defensive driving mode. That means, in part, focusing completely on your driving and what’s going on around you on the road. If you’re on a long trip and using cruise control, turn it off. Keep both hands on the steering wheel.
Slow down – even if it means driving under the speed limit. Remember that you can be ticketed for driving too fast for road and weather conditions regardless of your speed. You also don’t want to be going too fast if you go through a puddle that’s deeper than it looks. That can cause hydroplaning.
Allow plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead. That “3-second rule” may need to be lengthened to 4 or more seconds. Remember that the closer you are to the car in front of you, the more likely you are to be temporarily blinded by splashing water.
Don’t make any sudden moves, like sharp turns or hard braking. That’s another reason to keep your speed down. If you start to skid, remember to look and steer in the direction you want to go and not to slam on the brakes.
Wind is another dangerous weather condition
If conditions are windy, keep your distance from large vehicles that tend to get blown around. Also watch out for debris rolling across the road so you can safely avoid it or at least be extra careful if you have no choice but to drive over it.
Taking these precautions can minimize your risk of a collision with a driver who isn’t taking them. However, it’s important to remember that if you are involved in a crash despite your best efforts, bad weather doesn’t excuse another driver’s unsafe behavior. You can help protect your rights and work to pursue fair compensation if you get legal guidance as soon as possible.
