Spring weather often brings heavy rain in the Atlanta region and with an estimated 6 million car accidents in the United States a year with pesky rain playing a factor, it’s safe to say that the saying, “ in like a lion, out like a lamb,” isn’t always true.
Car Accident Prevention
Our orthopedic doctors often treat car accident injuries, however many of the accidents reported could have been prevented if certain precautions were taken.
Avoid Hard Braking
As you drive down the road on a sunny day and you hit your brakes, your risk of sliding is minimal but when you add rain into the mix the result is drastically different. In wet conditions you have the potential to lose control of your vehicle which can cause harm to yourself and others on the road. It’s always best to stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings and always give yourself ample space between vehicles in poor and pristine conditions.
Steer Clear of the Puddles
Oftentimes, puddles form on the sides of the road, which mean the middle is always the safest when there is heavy rain. When going through even a small amount of water there is a risk of hydroplaning which means your car begins sliding uncontrollably. If ever driving through water, be cautious and remain alert to avoid hydroplaning.
Turn on the Lights!
When driving through rain, visibility can become difficult therefore having your lights on can increase your sight lines. Regardless of the amount of rain, your headlights can become a huge asset to you as they lights provide a better view of other objects and vehicles around you. Some states even require that when the windshield wipers go on, so do the lights. Always be cautious, turn on the lights!
No Cruise Control
Some may think that cruise control will better your chances of handling your car during wet conditions, however this is not the case. Putting your car in cruise control will actually increase your risk of hydroplaning.
Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid accidents is to keep up with preventative maintenance on your vehicle. This could look like replacing wipers when they are worn down, tires when they are bald, and always making sure your lights are working properly.
Accidents, however, are just that. No one means for them to happen and sometimes even taking every precaution won’t stop an accident from happening. If you have been in an accident and suffered an injury, contact our team of Atlanta orthopedic doctors today at (404) 855-2141 for a consultation today!
