Written By: Chris Dolan and Anna Pantsulaya
California drivers are used to sunshine, but when gloomy and rainy weather hits, roads become more hazardous. Low visibility, wet pavement and hydroplaning risks make it difficult to drive safely, especially in Los Angeles’ overcast mornings or during Northern California’s heavy rain showers.
Increased Risks of Accidents on Wet Roads
Driving in California rainy weather brings unique challenges. Wet roads reduce tire traction, increasing the chances of skidding or hydroplaning. Many drivers fail to adjust their speed and following distance, leading to dangerous collisions. With ongoing storm warnings in California, hazards like mudslides, rockslides and flooded highways are making travel even more dangerous.
One common defense in weather-related accidents is that a vehicle was traveling too fast for the conditions (Veh. Code 22350). Specifically, California Vehicle Code Section 22350 states, “No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic on, and the surface and width of, the highway, and in no event at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property.”
For instance, a reasonable and prudent driver should not base their driving speed solely on the posted speed limit. If the conditions of the road, such as rain, are such that a reduced speed would keep others and their property safe, driving at or above the speed limit could contribute to liability if an accident were to occur. Even if not technically speeding, the law requires drivers to adjust their driving according to the conditions.
Tips for Driving Safely in Gloomy and Rainy Weather
- Reduce Speed: Rain can make roads slippery, so slow down to maintain better control of your vehicle.
- Increase Following Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow for increased braking distance.
- Use Headlights: Turn on your headlights to increase visibility, especially during heavy rain or low-light conditions.
- Avoid Cruise Control: Disable cruise control in wet conditions to maintain better control over your vehicle.
- Check Tires: Ensure your tires have sufficient tread depth for better traction on wet roads. Consider replacing them if they are worn.
- Brake Gently: Brake smoothly and gently to avoid skidding. Sudden braking can lead to hydroplaning.
- Stay in the Middle Lanes: Water tends to accumulate in the outer lanes, so driving in the middle lanes can reduce the risk of hydroplaning.
- Defog Windows: Keep your windows clear and use the defogging setting to maintain visibility.
- Be Mindful of Puddles: Avoid driving through large puddles, as they may conceal potholes or other hazards.
- Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts before driving and be aware of any road closures or warnings.
- Use Turn Signals: Signal your intentions early, and give other drivers ample notice of your actions.
- Be Cautious at Intersections: Rain can make roads slippery, so be extra cautious at intersections and give yourself enough time to stop.
When to Avoid Driving
If the rain is heavy and visibility is low, consider delaying your trip. Flooded roads, rockslides and mudslides have been reported across Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area and other cities throughout California. Many highways and roads become impassible due to storms-related flooding. If you must drive, check road conditions and be alert to avoid dangerous road washouts, falling debris or sudden mudslides.
Injured Due to a Rain-Related Car Accident? We Can Help
Even when you drive carefully, others may not. If you’ve been in an accident due to another driver’s negligence in storm-related conditions, you have legal options. Our California car accident personal injury lawyers at Dolan Law Firm have helped many clients after weather-related crashes involving hydroplaning, rockslides and flooded roads. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
