Driving in Bad Weather? Here’s How to Stay Safe Behind the Wheel

From snowstorms to torrential downpours, severe weather has a way of catching even experienced drivers off guard. When bad weather hits, driving conditions can deteriorate rapidly and familiar roads can suddenly become hazardous. If you have to get behind the wheel during a storm, here are some essential steps you can take to stay safe.

When There’s Flooding 

Flooded roadways are extremely dangerous and notoriously deceptive. Rising waters can make it difficult to spot sinkholes and debris, or cause roadways to completely wash away. While staying off the road during severe storms is always safest, flash floods can catch drivers off guard. If you find yourself driving during a flood, here’s how to navigate the situation safely:

• “Turn around, don’t drown.” Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways or flowing streams. If you have to drive during a flood, be prepared to take alternate paths that stick to higher elevations. 
• Drive in the center of the road (if it’s safe to do so). Roads are typically designed to be highest at the center and slope downwards on each side. During heavy rain, flood waters will drain toward the sides of the road. Driving in the center can help you avoid deep waters. 
• Don't underestimate “shallow” water. Even shallow waters can stall your engine and cause a total loss of steering control. It only takes about six to eight inches of water to reach the bottom of most passenger cars.
• Get to higher ground. If you notice water levels rising, use your vehicle to get to areas with less flooding risk. Avoid areas like canyons, underpasses, drainage ditches, or other low spots.
• Abandon your vehicle (if necessary). If you find yourself stuck in a flooded road, do not stay in your vehicle. Get out and get yourself to higher ground. If you can't get out of your car safely, call 911.

When There’s Snow and Ice

Driving in winter brings its own challenges. When ice and heavy snow hit, the safest decision is to avoid driving if possible, especially if local authorities have issued a winter storm warning or state of emergency. If travel is essential, here’s how to safely navigate winter roads: 

• Clear off all ice and snow. Clearing your windshield alone isn’t enough. You should thoroughly brush off your car’s roof, hood, windows, and light fixtures. Uncleared snow can melt and later harden into dangerous sheets of ice.
• Check your tire tread. In the winter, swap out the traditional penny test for a quarter test. Insert a quarter into the tire’s tread groove with Washington’s head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Washington’s head, don’t drive in the snow and replace your tires as soon as you can. 
• Keep a safe distance. Slippery snow and ice can make it more difficult for your vehicle to come to a stop. Make sure that there’s at least an extra six to eight seconds between your vehicle and the car ahead of you. 
• Ditch the cruise control. In snowy or icy conditions, you need to maintain manual control over your accelerator and brakes. If you hit a patch of ice, cruise control will make it more likely for your vehicle to spin out of control.
• Remain calm on slippery roads. If your vehicle begins to slide out of control, don’t slam on the brakes. Instead, ease off the gas, hold the steering wheel steady, and gently steer into the direction that you need to go. 

Everyday Preparedness: What to Keep in Your Vehicle

Emergencies can happen any time you get into a vehicle, no matter what the weather forecast may be. Having a safety kit in your car at all times can help if you get stuck in a broken down car, heavy traffic, or get in an accident. Essential gear to keep in your car includes:

• First aid kit 
• Jumper cables 
• Flashlight 
• Items to keep you warm (blanket, hand warmers, etc.) 
• A whistle or LED flares 
• Extra snacks and nonperishable food items 
• Fire extinguisher 
• Rain gear 

What to Do After a Car Accident

While safe driving practices reduce your risk on the road, accidents can happen to anyone. Our step-by-step checklist walks you through everything from documenting the scene to handling insurance adjusters.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident and you have questions about what to do next, contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.