While it rarely snows in Los Angeles, it’s common for Southern California to receive more rainfall in the winter. There’s a good chance that this winter will have more precipitation than usual, due to the El Niño weather system. To help you and the drivers in your household prepare for a Los Angeles wet winter, the LA car crash lawyers at Lerner and Rowe share vital safety tips to make sure that your vehicle is prepared for inclement weather.
Four Safety Tips for Los Angeles Wet Winter
Driving in the rain presents all sorts of challenges, especially in Los Angeles where rain is scarce. Locals, especially longtime residents that grew up in other parts of the world, like to joke that Angelenos drive like the world is ending when it rains. The reality is that many SoCal motorists are simply unaccustomed and unprepared for driving in the rain. Don’t be one of “those” drivers.
Lerner and Rowe’s Los Angeles injury attorneys recommend these four simple, but highly effective, things that you can do to maximize your safety this winter.
1) Change Your Windshield Wipers
A major reason for rainy day car crashes is decreased visibility. Rain makes it more difficult to see and monitor driving conditions–essential components of safe driving. Limited visibility can be exacerbated by worn windshield wipers, which do not push water away as effectively as wipers in optimal condition. Check the condition of your windshield wipers before Los Angeles wet winter begins in earnest and replace them if necessary.
2) Check Your Tire Treads
Rain decreases the friction between your vehicle’s tires and the road. This can lead to skidding, temporary loss of control, and hydroplaning–all of which can result in a Los Angeles car wreck. Inspect the condition of your tire treads or stop by a tire shop that offers this service (usually for free). If your tires are due for rotation or replacement then it’s important to take care of it before the rainy season begins.
Related: Top Los Angeles Car Accident Causes
3) Monitor Your Tire’s Air Pressure
Temperatures can fluctuate wildly during winter in Southern California. The daytime temperatures can be in the 70s, while evenings can dip into the 40s. The changes in temperature will affect your vehicle’s tire pressure. Be sure to monitor air pressure throughout the winter and inflate as needed (most tire shops will do this for free). Underinflated tires can make your car more difficult to control, which can lead to a collision.
4) Don’t Be Afraid to Slow Down
If you find yourself overwhelmed by Los Angeles wet winter conditions then don’t be afraid to reduce your speed in order to increase your safety. Of course you shouldn’t slow down to the point where it endangers other drivers, but driving at or slightly below the speed limit is fine if it helps increase your confidence and your ability to monitor the road.
Contact a Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney
The Los Angeles injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe hope that you follow the safety tips above and have a safe winter. Unfortunately, some collisions and crashes will happen no matter how safe you’re being. Should you get into a car wreck due to another party’s negligence or recklessness then contact us for a free consultation.
You can reach Lerner and Rowe 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone at 844-977-1900 and through the Internet through encrypted contact form or LiveChat. Our firm has a proven track record of winning billion-dollar results for injury victims across America. Additionally, our team is committed to helping clients carry the emotional burden of their injuries–a major reason why we’ve received glowing reviews from our clients. Remember, one call does it all. A call to Lerner and Rowe may be the most important one you’ll ever make.