In the Lowcountry we understand rain. As we enter the rainier parts of the year where we start to think about our routes, about flooding, and about the hurricane season that seems to create more stress than anything. What we don’t talk about as much are light rain and higher accidents. When we think of rain in the Lowcountry, we think of the torrential downpours that accompany named storms and flooded roads. However, the fact remains that your chances of an automobile accident rise by around 27% when light rain occurs.
Why is that? There are a number of factors. The most dangerous part about light rain is that the wetness brings out the oil in the road, making it more slippery. Additionally, we don’t consider light rain a threat, so we tend to speed through it and not pay attention as though nothing was wrong. The problem is that light rain can still create conditions for hydroplaning and other road hazards. Another major problem is that we don’t pay attention as we should during light rain. This leads to distracted driving which, when combined with rain conditions, leads to an increase in accidents.
We’re passionately committed to the safety of our community. With that in mind, here are a few tips to keep you safe.
Pay Attention
Perhaps the single best thing you can do for driving safety is to pay attention when you’re behind the wheel. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic accidents, and those odds only go up when you add in rain and other environmental conditions. Bottom line, whenever you’re behind the wheel you need to be paying attention to the road and the other drivers on it.
Understand Rain is Always a Threat
Taking things for granted can create incredibly dangerous conditions. When the road is wet the conditions change and it becomes far easier for an accident to happen. Rain is rain and you, as a driver, need to understand that. Granted the heavier rain brings additional hazards such as flooding, but don’t let yourself be lulled into a false sense of security during a light rain.
Pay Attention to Your Maintenance
When’s the last time you looked at your tires? Your brakes? Your windshield wipers? The condition of these parts of your car can be vital to your safety and prove the difference between an accident and a safe trip. Take a few moments now to look at the condition of these items. If they’re not good then make arrangements and have them replaced/repaired. Trust us when we tell you that this ounce of prevention is worth far more than a pound of cure.
We are Your Auto Repair Source
Fender Mender is the name for auto repair in the Charleston area. Whatever body repair you need, whether small body damage or a full collision repair, our team can help you get your car back to the way it was. If you’ve been in a recent accident, or have automotive damage you want fixed, contact us today. We’re ready to help you!