Car Accidents In Naples Due To Wet Road Conditions: How To Reduce Your Risks
In Naples, Florida, late summer is typically the wettest time of the year. Tropical storms and hurricanes pose significant hazards to residents, particularly on the road. Wet surfaces and increased glare are common factors in Naples car accidents.
Our Naples car accident lawyer represents victims and their families when these crashes occur, helping them get the compensation they need to recover in a claim. With periods of heavy rain predicted by local weather forecasters throughout the next months, it is crucial to be aware of common hazards and how to reduce risks.
Wet Road Conditions Increase Naples Car Accident Risks
The summer season in Naples is predictably wet. In addition to random afternoon rainfalls, tropical storms and hurricanes bring additional precipitation and have the potential to make local roads treacherous.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) warns drivers to be aware of the risks. Of the more than six million car accidents that happen throughout the country each year, over 20 percent are weather-related. Wet, rainy roads are the most common cause. Rain-related hazards that increase Naples car accident risks include:
- Increased risk of skidding: Going too fast for conditions and making sharp turns is dangerous in any conditions, especially when there is rain.
- Difficulty steering and braking: Wet, rainy road conditions make it harder to brake, steer, and perform other driving tasks.
- Difficulty seeing the road and other motorists: Pouring rain makes it difficult to see and glare can be blinding, particularly when driving in dark conditions.
- Hydroplaning: Braking too quickly or other sudden movements can result in hydroplaning, which Naples Daily News reports was the cause of a fatal car accident in Collier County that claimed the lives of two people in June 2024.
How To Reduced The Risk Of Rain-Related Hazards On The Road
Heavy rainfalls due to tropical storms and hurricanes pose significant hazards to drivers on the road. Collier County warns residents to avoid driving through major storms and be extra cautious during heavy downpours. Our Naples car accident lawyer recommends the following tips to reduce your risks:
- Make sure your car is in good working order, checking tire tread, brakes, windshield wipers, and lighting systems;
- Keep a full tank of gas throughout hurricane season;
- Check local forecasts before heading out on the road;
- Expect heavier traffic or other delays and reduce your speed;
- Be cautious when going over bridges or driving through areas that typically flood;
- Avoid driving through puddles when possible, which are often deeper than they appear.
Injured In A Crash? Request A Consultation Today With Our Naples Car Accident Lawyer
Heavy rains during hurricane season increase the risk of car accidents in Naples, which can cause serious, potentially life-threatening personal injuries for drivers and passengers involved. Cardinal Law, P.A. helps victims and their families get compensation. If you or someone you love gets hurt in a crash, contact our Naples car accident lawyer and request a consultation.
Sources:
ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/q1_roadimpact.htm
naplesnews.com/story/news/local/2024/06/12/florida-highway-patrol-two-die-in-weather-related-crash-in-immokalee/74078386007/