Tips on How to Drive in Missouri's Heavy Rain
This autumn, regions in Missouri have been struck by heavy rainfall, especially in Hannibal. The monthly average rainfall for Hannibal increased from 11.37 inches to 11.46. Rain leads to flooding which contributes to poor road conditions. Many roads have been closed and reopened due to excess rainfall. The heavy rain has also been the perpetrator in several car accidents that claimed a few lives. To ensure road safety, the Missouri Department of Transportation has been monitoring road conditions and posting updates on the traveler information map section of its website.
Rainwater coats roads, making them slicker, which can cause tires to lose traction or hydroplane. The best way to prevent a hydroplane is to make sure there is enough tread on your tires and to drive five miles below the posted speed limit, or slower, if conditions are more severe. If you drive too fast in the rain, your tires may not be able to grip the road properly and could skid on the water, causing the vehicle to spin and even accelerate. If this happens, release the gas pedal and drive straight until the tires regain traction.
Here are some other useful tips for driving in the rain:
- Avoid large puddles.
- Don’t use Cruise Control. Reaction time becomes increasingly important in the rain. Cruise Control can also cause a vehicle to accelerate in a hydroplane.
- Break slower and with less force to increase stopping distances and so that the driver behind you has enough time to stop.
- Keep your headlights on to increase your visibility and allow other motorists to see you.
It is a driver’s responsibility to drive safely and be aware of road conditions. If you have been injured in an auto accident because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Page Cagle today at (866) 620-5757 to speak with an experienced Missouri personal injury lawyer.
