Auto Accident Lawyers

Orlando, Florida

Accidents during Rain Storms

Vehicle accidents increase substantially during poor weather conditions. Drivers forget how rain, fog and wind affect the roads and how their driving habits needs to change in dangerous conditions. Also, many drivers realize too late their car has mechanical issues, making them a greater hazard to themselves, their passengers and other drivers on the roadways.

The following factors produce unsafe driving conditions during a rainstorm:

• Diminished visibility
• Other drivers conduct
• Excessively timid drivers driving too slow
• Aggressive drivers ignoring the consequences of weather on the roads
• Drivers having a difficult time adjusting to seasonal changes
• Diminished traction

Hydroplaning

When a layer of water prevents a car from making contact with the roadway, the loss of friction causes the car to hydroplane. The driver loses control of the cars braking and steering abilities causing the car to skid and eventually collide with another object.

The risks are higher in the following situations:

• Deep water from heavy rain or flooding
• When the driver is speeding
• If the vehicle is out of balance and/or overloaded
• If the tires have been poorly maintained, under inflated or worn down

Safe Driving Tips

The best solutions to preventing an accident during hazardous weather conditions is to plan your trip ahead of time, drive with great caution and always remember to maintain your car on a regular basis:

• Check tire treads at every oil change and make sure your traction is good
• Replace windshield wipers at least once a year
• Before rainy season, make sure brake lights, head lights and turn signals are in working condition
• Carry an emergency kit in your car
• Give yourself extra time to reach your destination
• Be prepared to take alternate routes to avoid flooded roadways
• Keep in mind that oil deposits and rain make for exceptionally slippery conditions especially at intersections
• Give yourself extra space between you and other drivers
• Release your foot from the accelerator early and brake lightly avoiding sudden stops
• When possible, drive in center lanes where rain water is less likely to pool
• Remember when passing large trucks their spray can be blinding
• Avoid standing water that may be hiding deep and dangerous pot holes

If youve been injured in an accident during a rainstorm, call 911 for immediate help then contact an experienced attorney to get legal assistance on your insurance or personal injury claim.

In Orlando, Florida, please contact the experienced auto accident attorneys at Colling, Gilbert, Wright & Carter. Well give you the personal attention you need and fight for the compensation you and your loved ones deserve.