Posted in Car Accident,Personal Injury,Tennessee Accident Law on March 30, 2016
Spring Storms Bring Threat of Wet Roads, Flash Flooding to Middle TN
The National Weather Service indicates that strong storms will hit the Middle Tennessee area late Wednesday night and early Thursday morning, bringing large amounts of rainfall that could lead to flash flooding.
According to a report by The Tennessean, the storms are expected to arrive around midnight Wednesday. Heavy rainfall will last well into Thursday morning, creating potential delays and hazards for drivers during rush hour traffic and morning commutes. The NWS’s reports indicate that around one to three inches of rain are expected, and areas west of Interstate 65 may be at the highest risk of flooding.
The storm front will also bring cold air to the area, which will increase the risk of damaging winds, hail, and additional flash flooding. Forecasts show that the weather will temporarily clear Thursday afternoon before rain clouds move into the area again Thursday evening.
Wet Weather Driving Tips to Help You Stay Safe This Spring
When roads become slick due to the accumulation of rainwater, the risks that drivers face can increase significantly. Even vehicles with all-weather tires still lose some traction when driving on wet asphalt or pavement—especially when rainwater mixes with oil and other vehicular liquids.
To reduce your risks of being involved in an accident while driving in wet weather, follow these important safety tips:
Intersections are already one of the most dangerous areas of the road, but they pose even more risks for drivers when roads are wet. Because vehicles frequently idle for long periods of time at intersections, oil can accumulate on the asphalt. When it mixes with water, it can make you much more likely to hydroplane and lose control of your vehicle. To stay safe, reduce your speed when driving through intersections and keep your hands firmly on the wheel.
Following too closely is always a dangerous driving behavior, but the risks are increased during and after rain showers. In addition to rain and oil reducing your tires’ grip on the road, these elements can also significantly increase the braking distance required for your vehicle to slow down or come to a complete stop. By putting more space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, you’ll have more time to react and your brakes will have more time to work if you need to suddenly reduce your speed.
Rain and high humidity can cause moisture and fog to collect on the inside of your windshield and your windows. Anything that obstructs your vision while you’re driving can increase your risk of being involved in a car accident. That’s why it’s important to use your air conditioner’s defrost setting to clear moisture from your windshield. If you can’t get the fogginess off your windshield using your defroster, pull over to a safe place and use a clean t-shirt or cloth to wipe it away.
It’s also important to prepare both yourself and your vehicle for driving during wet weather. Replace worn out tires and make sure all of your lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals work properly before leaving your home. If you’re uncomfortable driving during the rain, practice your wet weather driving skills by working with a qualified driving instructor.
Although wet weather can increase the risks that all drivers face, many motorists fail to exercise the necessary caution to keep themselves and other drivers safe on the roadways in Middle Tennessee during inclement conditions. If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident that was caused by a negligent driver in wet or dry conditions, we want to speak with you.
To find out how we may be able to help you recover compensation for your accident-related expenses, contact us today by dialing (615) 200-1111 or completing a free online consultation form.
