Here in Florida, the rainy season is upon us. It’s that time of year when heavy rains and winds occur more frequently as strong storms shower the state on a weekly basis. This year, the National Weather Service (NWS) announced that May 15 was the start of the rainy season in Florida, an earlier start than usual as May tends to be a drier month.
According to the South Florida Water Management District, five inches of rain fell in May as of May 22, which is nearly twice as much rain as normal for that time of year. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is forecasting a heavier-than-usual rainy season this year, believing that there will be above-average rainfall between now and August.
At Kelleher Law, our personal injury attorneys, led by Jim Kelleher, understand how much heavy rain and storms can affect the daily lives of those who live in the Naples, Fort Myers, and Atlanta, GA areas. We know that people have busy lives full of commuting to work, taking family members to activities, and weekend trips to the beach and we want to help you stay safe while on the roads.
Knowing how to drive in inclement weather can help keep you and your family safe when a storm unexpectedly erupts. Hydroplaning is a real threat to your safety in stormy weather. Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle drives too fast in rainy conditions and the tires of the vehicle actually travel on a thin layer of water rather than the surface of the road. This can cause your vehicle to spin out of control, as well as make braking and steering difficult.
If you find yourself in a storm with heavy rains and winds, it’s important to remember these safety tips.
For heavy rain:
- Go slow: Heavy rain not only makes the roads more slippery and hydroplaning a possibility, but it also makes visibility difficult. Rain can make the roads slicker as oils and other vehicle fluids are mixed with the water.
- Turn on lights: Because of the visibility issues of heavy rain it’s important to turn your lights on so that you can see in front of you and vehicles behind can see you. Turn your lights on even if it’s still daylight when it rains.
- Keep a safe distance: Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you is always good practice but especially so when it’s raining. In case of a car suddenly stopping or sliding, it can save you from running into an out-of-control vehicle.
For heavy wind:
- Be ready for gusts: Be extra careful when driving in areas prone to heavy winds. Keep an eye on reports of extreme weather.
- Keep both hands tightly on the wheel: In the event that a large wind gust occurs, it’s best to have both of your hands on the steering wheel. Keep a firm grip so that if a gust comes you can steady your vehicle.
- Be aware of large vehicles: Large vehicles like tractor-trailers and recreational vehicles are more prone to being affected by high winds. Keep a safe distance from them during heavy winds.
We at Kelleher Law hope that these safe driving tips can help you stay safe during extreme weather. However, these tips cannot protect you from other negligent drivers. In the event that someone causes an accident with you, it’s important to call an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries.
If you’ve been in an accident in bad weather that was caused by another driver, please call Kelleher Law today at 833-546-3675 to schedule your free consultation. We have offices conveniently located in Naples and Fort Myers, Florida, and in Atlanta, Georgia.
