Driver POV (point of view) looking over the windshield wipers through the wet, blurry, partially opaque, partially transparent, spot speckled windshield of a car traveling on a rural highway during an autumn rain storm. Hazy, blurred headlights of approaching vehicle traffic are just blobs of light through the streaking and splattered raindrop water. Canon 5D Mark III.
Everyone loves a good summer road trip—windows down, tunes up, sunglasses on. But sometimes, summer turns from sunshine to sideways rain with barely a warning. Thunder rumbles, wipers can’t keep up, and suddenly you’re gripping the wheel just a bit tighter.
Driving during summer storms isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a real danger. But with the right know-how (and a few deep breaths), you can get through it safely.
Check Before You Hit the Road
Start with a simple move: look at the forecast before you leave. Lots of storms give at least a little warning. Smartphone weather apps are handy, but a fast check with the National Weather Service can tell you if severe storms are headed your way. If the weather looks truly rough, consider rescheduling or waiting it out. Sometimes, the safest answer is just to stay put for an extra hour.
And before you even turn the ignition key, check your tires, wipers, and headlights. Tires with good tread grip the road better on wet pavement, and clear headlights cut through the gloom. None of this is glamorous, but it’s what keeps you safer when the skies open up.
Slow Down and Spread Out
Once you’re on the road and the rain hits, the best tip is as simple as it gets: slow down. Speeding in the rain is the quickest way to lose control. Wet roads mean your tires have less grip, and sudden moves—slamming on the brakes, quick turns—can send you sliding. The AAA Exchange suggests doubling your following distance (leave at least five car lengths) and keeping a steady, relaxed pace.
If the rain turns blinding, don’t hesitate to pull over. Find a safe spot—never the middle of the road—and wait it out with your hazard lights on.
Watch for Hazards
Storms bring more than rain. Watch the road for standing water, which can cause hydroplaning. If you hit a puddle and feel the wheel go light, ease off the gas, hold the wheel steady, and avoid braking hard. Never try to drive through flooded roads; just a few inches of water can sweep away even big vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds drivers that it’s impossible to gauge depth and current accurately from the driver’s seat.
Keep an eye out for debris, power lines, and fallen branches. If storm damage blocks your route or you see unsafe conditions, turn around and take another way if you can. And let’s be real: if the weather gets so intense that visibility drops to near zero, the best place for your car is parked somewhere safe.
After the Storm
If you do end up in a fender bender or worse, remember—the top priority is everyone’s safety. Move vehicles to safety if possible, call for help right away, and contact your insurance. If the situation is serious, reaching out to an Oakland car accident attorney can help you navigate the aftermath without extra stress.
No one plans for chaos on the road, but a little common sense goes a long way. Keep calm, drive smart, and you’ll weather the summer storms with nothing but good stories to tell (and maybe a little extra patience earned along the way).
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