CHP Offers Tips for Motorists Driving in Wet Conditions

The sun may be shining again in Santa Cruz County, but another winter storm is just around the corner. With rain headed our way again this weekend, the California Highway Patrol offers some advise on how to stay safe as you travel the wet roads.

“The speed limit you see posted is the maximum allowable speed during ideal conditions,” CHP Lt. Les Bishop said. "That means if the conditions are less than ideal, your speed should be less than the maximum. This is for the safety of everyone on the roadway,"

The CHP offers several tips for motorists to follow to prevent accidents on the roadways.

Before you take your car out:

• Check your tire pressure and tread depth. Uneven wear or insufficient tread depth can lead to spinouts, inability to brake efficiently or a blowout. Checking your tires when you gas up is a good habit.
• Examine your windshield wipers. Visibility is crucial. If your wipers are cracked, worn or missing, you may not be able to see clearly when the rain starts.
• A clean windshield prevents built-up dirt, insects or tree sap from becoming a visual obstruction when rain starts.
• Make sure your lights are in working order. Your brake lights warn approaching motorists to slow, which is especially important when braking distances are extended. Turn signals and headlights should be checked as well.
• Air conditioners and defrosters are excellent tools to combat a fogged windshield.

Once the rain and fog are here, these driving habits can help prevent a collision:

• Drive with your headlights on in the rain. The California Vehicle Code states drivers must use headlights during inclement weather, or when windshield wipers are required.
• Use gentle brake and accelerator applications to avoid hydroplaning.
• Increase your following distance. Water on the roadway increases stopping distance. 
• Exceeding the speed limit is especially dangerous in adverse conditions. Never drive faster than what is safe. Water on the roadway or reduced visibility conditions require you to drive slower than the posted speed limit.

Bishop offers one last important piece of advice to make your winter-weather driving experience a good one.

“Be sure you allow yourself a little additional travel time, and buckle up,” he said.