According to the Farmer’s Almanac, North Carolina will be seeing a rainier than normal winter. While snowfall is not usually an issue, damp, dark roads significantly increase car accident risks. Whether you are a local resident or simply visiting the area over the holidays, be aware of the potential dangers and the ways in which you can protect yourself at this time of year.
Rainy Weather Season Increases Car Accident Risks
Car accidents can generally be attributed to reckless behaviors on the part of other drivers, such as speeding, running red lights, and driving distracted or under the influence. However, weather conditions can play a significant role in crashes and collisions while generally increasing your overall car accident risks.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), adverse weather is a factor in more than 20 percent of the nearly six million car accidents that occur throughout the U.S. each year. While you might think that drivers from places where there are heavy snowfalls and regular below freezing temperatures are at greater risk, the fact is that rain is the biggest concern and creates the most danger on the roads.
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Damp and rainy conditions are directly responsible for nearly 50 percent of all weather-related car accidents while wet pavement was to blame in nearly two-thirds of these cases. Common hazards the rain poses that increase car accident risks for drivers include:
- Generally heavier traffic conditions
- Reduced tire traction, making skidding more likely to happen
- Reduced braking ability, making it harder for drivers to stop or to respond to sudden changes in traffic flow
- Reduced visibility and increased glare, making dangerous driving errors and mistakes more likely to happen
Driving Tips for Wet Winter Weather in North Carolina
Higher rainfall chances combined with increased darkness during daylight hours and more traffic to the area due to holiday visitors all make car accidents in Kitty Hawk and nearby communities more likely to occur.
Taking a few simple precautions at this time of year can help to protect you, your passengers, and others on the road. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends the following tips:
- Prepare your vehicle: Make sure your tires have adequate tread, clean your head and taillights, and replace your windshield wipers.
- Allow plenty of time to reach your destination. Realize that traffic gets heavier with early nightfall and with increases in holiday traffic. Allow extra time to reach your destination.
- Avoid using cruise control. This can impact your traction, making skids and hydroplaning more likely to happen.
- Keep space between you and other vehicles. Avoid tailgating, which increases the odds of rear-end accidents.
Contact Us Today for Help
When car accidents do happen, the personal injury law firm of Shapiro & Appleton helps you get the compensation you need to recover. Call (833) 997-1774 or contact our skilled North Carolina car accident attorneys online to request a free consultation today.