DRIVING IN THE RAIN

Why is driving in the rain so dangerous, especially here in Las Vegas and Henderson:

Driving in the rain is the number one cause of car accidents every year. No matter how rare rain is in Nevada, it does happen. Because Nevada is considered a “dry state” it is even more dangerous to drive in rainy weather because oils build up over time causing roads to be extra slippery even when getting just a little precipitation. As you may already know flooding is very common in the Las Vegas valley due to the high heat and compact soils the ground won’t take on water very quickly. The roads also get water run-off from mountains causing the water levels to rise quickly. On January 15, 2015, Las Vegas Review Journal reported 143 car accidents in one day because of heavy rainfall.*

With average rainfall in Las Vegas never going higher than .55 inches during any month, it can happen and it is important to know how to drive in these conditions. In bad weather there are two types of people: excessively timid drivers and reckless drivers. People in the area also can be forgetful about how to handle rainy driving conditions, so here are ten safety tips for driving in the rain:

1. First and foremost: slow down! Even if you have all-wheel drive It takes longer to stop in wet weather.

1. Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
2. Maintain proper following distance (3 Second Rule). This needs to be increased in wet weather.
3. Drive in the tracks of a car ahead of you.
4. Don’t follow large trucks or busses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
5. Be more alert when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Watch out for brake lights in front of you.
6. Avoid using your brakes; if possible, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
7. Turn your headlights on even in a light rain, or in gloomy, foggy or overcast conditions. Not only do they help you see the road, but they’ll help other drivers see you. If your car has daytime running lights you still should put them on, so vehicles behind you can see you better.
8. Never drive through moving water if you can’t see the ground through it; your car could be swept off the road.
9. When driving through a puddle of uncertain depth, go slow. If it’s deeper than the bottom of your doors, turn around and find another route. Deep water can cause serious damage to a modern car’s electrical system.

It is not advised to drive when it is raining, but if you have to, make sure to take these tips to avoid any collisions or damage to your car. We know that accidents happen and if you have gotten hit by someone not following these safety tips in the rainfall, call Core Rehab to find out what to do next. (702)577-1962 www.corerehab.info

*http://www.reviewjournal.com/news/las-vegas/143-wrecks-reported-10-hours-because-rain