5 Tips for Driving in Texas Rain

(Image: Christian Southworth / FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

Now that the long dry summer of 2011 is over, Texas is seeing more much needed rain. Unfortunately, the drought took a toll on our roadways. Engine oil and grease continued to build up on our roadways as day after day of 100 degree temps and no rain caused cracks in the land.

More recently, parts of Texas have received rain, but at a cost to drivers. Earlier this week, drivers in Dallas woke up to rain and a rush hour mess. Storms in the area caused power outages, pools of high water, slick roads, and dangerous car wrecks.

Multiple car wrecks were reported on Dallas' infamous 635. One of the wrecks, which was blamed on a combination of high speed, rain, and alcohol, took the life of a young woman riding in an SUV that ran off the interstate and crashed into a lamp post. Four others in the SUV were rushed to local hospitals.

High water shut down an onramp to State Highway 121 near DFW Airport, forcing drivers to find an alternate route.

More rain is expected to enter the area next week. Here are five tips for driving safely in the rain:

1. Slow down! Speeding in the rain increases the risk that you will be involved in a dangerous Texas car accident. You should always follow the three second rule, giving enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you to stop. But when it is raining, you should put even more distance between you and the car in front of you.
2. Brake earlier and use less force. By slowing down earlier, you increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, and you let drivers behind you know to slow down too.
3. Stay to the middle of road, where water is less likely to gather. Avoiding standing water can protect your car from damage to its internal electrical system or damage to its wheels or suspension that can be caused by submerged pot holes.
4. Allow for extra distance between yourself and trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. Larger vehicles can kick up enough water to block your vision completely. Pass these vehicles only when it is safe to do so.
5. Turn around, don't drown! If you are not sure how high the standing water is, and you cannot see the ground beneath it, don't chance it. Your car could become stuck in the standing water, leading to vehicle damage, or worse, you and your car could be swept away in a current of water.

 

Following these tips may ensure that you are not a victim of a dangerous Texas car accident.

Unfortunately, not all drivers will follow these tips, and we cannot control the way others drive around us. If you were injured in a car accident due to the fault of another driver, contact Van Wey Law today at (214)329-1350 or (800)489-5082. Our experienced accident attorneys may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve.