If you live in the state of Illinois, you are well aware of the fact that inclement weather can move into the area at any time. During the spring and summer months, this often means driving in heavy rain and strong winds.
If you find yourself behind the wheel as the rain begins to fall, it’s only natural to be hindered by poor visibility and less control when traveling at high speeds.
There are many tips you can follow to stay safe when driving in heavy rain. Consider the following:
- Slow down. The faster you drive in heavy rain the more difficult it is to maintain control of your vehicle. The best thing you can do is slow down, even if you are driving on the interstate.
- Keep your distance from other vehicles. It can be more difficult to stop your vehicle in heavy rain. It can also be a challenge to see what other drivers are doing. This is why you should leave a greater distance between your vehicle and others.
- Use your lights. This is beneficial for two reasons. To start, it makes it easier to see the road ahead of you. Secondly, it allows other vehicles to more easily see you.
- Pull over if necessary. There are times when the rain is coming down so hard that you are unable to see the road. If this happens, don’t be afraid to pull your vehicle to a safe place and wait for the rain to subside.
When you follow these tips, you’ll find it easier to remain safe when driving in heavy rain.
The one other thing you need to remember is this: Some drivers won’t take the same approach as you in bad weather. For instance, instead of slowing down, they continue to drive at a high rate of speed. This puts you, as well as other drivers, at risk of being part of an accident.
If another driver causes an accident, do your best to move your vehicle to a safe place. From there, contact police and an ambulance.
If you suffer any type of injury in an accident, you should also learn more about your legal rights. You may be able to receive compensation from the negligent party, which can be used for medical bills, treatment and to pay for other damages.