Dallas Expecting Heavy Rain Thursday – How This Will Impact Driving
The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex area is expecting heavy rain and thunderstorms to move in on Wednesday evening and continue throughout Thursday. This weather will likely wreak havoc not only on our daily commute, but the roads we all commute on.
The Impact on Driving Conditions
Wet roads mean poor tire traction. When the roads are wet, vehicles are more likely to slide, lose grip, or veer off course without warning. Puddled water poses serious risks for all drivers and pedestrians. Additionally, if a car’s tires aren’t suited for the conditions, it can lead to a driver losing control of the vehicle.
Reduced vision. When you’re driving in fog, heavy rain, or snow, it can be really hard to see what’s ahead of you. This problem gets even worse if you’re out on the road at night when the weather is bad.
Irresponsible drivers. When the weather is bad, most drivers tend to be more careful on the road. However, there are still some who act recklessly, behaving as if the conditions are perfectly fine. This kind of driving increases the chances of accidents and injuries significantly.
Potential Damage to Your Vehicle
According to the American Automotive Association (AAA), the following are the most common types of damages caused by potholes.
- Tires: When damaged by a pothole, tires are commonly cut, torn, or punctured in a way that is not repairable. A new tire can cost over $500 depending on the vehicle.
- Wheels: The force of a pothole strike can bend or break wheels in a way that cannot be professionally repaired. In that case, a driver can expect to spend $300 or more for each replacement wheel. Loss of balance weights is also a common form of pothole damage and wheel rebalancing and alignment which can cost hundreds of dollars.
- Suspensions: Potholes can also inflict expensive suspension‐related damage. Vehicles with damaged suspensions may have bent or broken parts that require attention, resulting in repair bills that can add up to $1,000 or more.
Tips for Safe Commuting
Don’t Speed. Slowing down your speed by 5-10 miles per hour when it rains or the roads are wet is a wise decision. Rain can reduce visibility, and when combined with wet roads, it can increase the time it takes for your vehicle to brake. Driving at high speeds in the rain can lead to losing control of your vehicle.
Avoided Flooded Areas. Certain regions in the Dallas/Fort Worth area often experience heavy rainfall, leading to flooded roads. If you venture into these areas, your vehicle may become inoperable and might even require assistance from emergency responders. In Texas, we emphasize the importance of adhering to the principle of turn around – don’t drown.
Keep An Eye Out For Other Drivers. Defensive driving is a fundamental skill taught in driver education courses as it prioritizes accident prevention and personal safety over asserting one’s right in a potentially hazardous situation involving another driver. While it is important to remain observant of all drivers on the road, it becomes even more crucial to exercise heightened vigilance during rainy conditions.
Don’t Slam On Your Brakes. Engaging in such behaviors increases the probability of losing control over your vehicle, thereby making it challenging for fellow drivers to predict your actions and prevent accidents. Prior to driving in rainy conditions, it is crucial to pause and consider the effectiveness of your car’s braking system on wet roads.
If You’ve Been In An Accident Due To Poor Road Conditions, Contact Us Today
Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Texas personal injury lawyer who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.
We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.
