Tires, wipers, common sense are keys to safe driving
in wet-weather conditions
SEATTLE – Nearly one million vehicle accidents happen each year in wet weather, according
to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration..
Many rainy-day
wrecks are caused by motorists failing to appreciate the vast difference
between driving in wet and dry conditions.
The NW Insurance Council offers these
tips to help residents protect lives and property:
w Slow down. As your speed decreases,
the tire footprint (the amount of the tire’s tread contacting the
road surface) increases, providing better traction. You also reduce the
risk of hydroplaning should you run into deeper water puddles on the road.
w Maintain a safe distance. Even
with a good wet-weather tire, be prepared for longer stopping distances
on wet pavement.
w Choose tires carefully. For optimum
performance in the rain, select a tire with tread design and rubber compounds
that provide enhanced wet-weather driving capabilities.
w
Properly maintain your tires. No tire can provide good
wet traction once the tread is worn below 2/32nd’s of
an inch tread depth. Check your tires regularly and replace them at the
proper time. One way to check the depth of your tires is to place a penny
(Lincoln’s head down) in the tread. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s
hair, it’s time to change your tires. Maintain the proper air pressure
in your tires; check your vehicle manufacturer handbook.
w Check your wipers. Install new
wiper blades at least once a year to ensure good vision.
w
Avoid hydroplaning. If you feel your vehicle starting to
hydroplane, take your foot off the accelerator – don’t hit your
brakes. If you have a manual transmission, push in the clutch and let
the vehicle slow down until control is regained.
w
Turn on your lights. During daylight hours, they may not
help you see better, but it will help other drivers see you.
For more information on safe wet-weather driving,
contact the NW Insurance Council at (206) 624-3330.
The NW Insurance Council is a nonprofit, consumer
education organization funded by member insurance companies.
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