Tips To Help Sarasota Motorists Remain Safe While Driving In Or After The Rain
There's no doubt about it. Driving through Sarasota County and Manatee County, whether it's on Bahia Vista Street or Manatee Avenue, or elsewhere in the Sunshine State can be dangerous. For one, the roadways are more crowded than ever, as loads of people call Sarasota County home. Meanwhile, visitors can be found on the streets at any given time too. They're here taking in the sights, hanging with family and friends, hitting the beaches/amusement parks, etc. Because there are so many individuals everywhere, all it would take is one mistake and you being in the wrong place at the wrong time for disaster to strike.
For example, you could be doing everything right traveling down I-75, only for someone else to fall asleep behind the wheel and side-swipe your car, causing it to strike a concrete barrier. Then again, maybe you're traveling home at around 3 am on I-4 after working your shift when suddenly, a drunk driver comes out of nowhere, hitting your vehicle head-on. However, it isn't always people that cause accidents.
For instance, what about the streets being slick after it rains? If drivers aren't careful, they can wind up being involved in accidents. Use the following tips to help yourself and others remain safe when you're driving in the rain.
Turn The Headlights On
Many modern vehicles have headlights that turn on automatically. Hence, drivers don't have to do anything for their cars to be more visible during storms. However, if your ride isn't equipped with such a feature, make it a point to turn your headlights on when the rain begins to fall from the sky. This action can help improve your ability to see what's in front of you. It will also make it easier for others to spot your car, and with any luck, all these things will combine to prevent you from being in an accident.
Take Your Time
According to the NHTSA, speeding has been involved in nearly one-third of all auto accident fatalities. It was responsible for claiming 11,258 lives in 2020 alone. Even in the best of conditions, speeding endangers everyone. But what about after it has been raining? Florida drivers can find their vehicles slipping, sliding, and hydroplaning everywhere if they hit the water on roads while traveling above posted speeds.
When tires can't get traction on pavement, catastrophes usually aren't far behind. Your car could go off the roadway and hit a tree. Another outcome might be you T-boning someone at an intersection if you're going too fast and your brakes just skid on the concrete/asphalt. Do yourself a favor if you want to keep accidents at bay and slow down to or below the posted speed when you're driving in the rain.
Stay Alert And Not Distracted
People shouldn't text and drive in Florida or anywhere else, regardless of whether it is wet or dry outside. This is because a vehicle can travel the length of a football field in a matter of five seconds when moving along at a speed of 55 miles per hour. There's a lot that could happen going such a great distance with your eyes fixated on a phone screen. For instance, a pedestrian or bicyclist could enter a crosswalk, the traffic in front of you could come to a screeching halt, etc. So, ensure that you remain alert while driving in the rain or on sunny days to stay safe.
Have you been injured in an accident in Sarasota because of someone's negligence in Florida? If the answer is yes, you might have the grounds to seek compensation for your damages.
