Of all weather-related car accidents in the United States, rain causes the most accidents, outpacing snow-related collisions by 3 to 1.  Every year, rain is blamed for over 700,000 car accidents, 330,000 injuries, and 3,300 deaths according to the US Department of Transportation. People continue to drive too fast on the roads because they have a false sense of security about their own driving skills, as well as those of other drivers. But, by simply following a few safety tips, you can avoid becoming a statistic.

Preparation is Key

Many accidents can be prevented by making sure that your car is safe to drive in the rain. Keep your car weather ready by regularly checking the condition of the following:

●     Brakes

●     Defroster

●     Tire depth and pressure

●     Windshield wipers

Keep tabs on the weather, and if there is a chance of freezing rain, put snow chains in your car, along with cat litter, sand or salt to help you in case your car gets stuck on the ice. Also, keep an emergency roadside kit in your car at all times in the event you become stranded or are involved in an accident.

Slow Down and Keep Your Distance

It seems obvious, but this is the number one tip offered by law enforcement. When it rains, stopping distance increases, and because it’s raining you will be stopping more often for other drivers. By driving at a reduced rate and keeping an additional two to three second buffer between yourself and other cars, you will go a long way in preventing a car accident.

Turn on Your Headlights

Daytime driving lights are effective for clear weather. In inclement weather, you should always have your headlights on, no matter how lightly the rain is falling. They help you see the road better, they help other drivers see you better, and it’s the law. Anytime you have to turn on your windshield wipers, the law requires you to turn on your headlights also. However, do not use your high beams, as this creates a hazard for other drivers.

Avoid Deep Water

If you can’t see the ground, don’t drive through the water if it’s avoidable. Your car could be swept away. If you must drive through the water, slow down significantly if the water is at a height that touches the bottom of your vehicle’s doors.

Do not try to cross running water. Your car is no match for the force of running water; crossing it is a surefire way to get swept away with your vehicle. It won’t make a difference whether you have FWD, RWD or AWD if your car is being pushed sideways.

Also, on multi-lane roads, stay in the middle lanes unless you’re exiting. Water pools up in outside lanes, and that creates an unnecessary hazard for drivers.

Decelerate Instead of Braking

A major cause of rain-related car accidents is hydroplaning. If you keep a safe distance and speed, you will have much less of a need to brake quickly. As often as you can, take your foot off the accelerator instead of using your brake.

Life doesn’t stop just because it starts to rain. Everyone has to drive in it from time to time. By preparing your vehicle ahead of time and following some common sense guidelines, you will reach your destination safely.