Seasonal Trends in Car Accidents: Why Weather Matters in Southern California

In southern California, we have two seasons: sunny and rainy. Occasionally, we might have fog by the coast. Weather is a major factor in motor vehicle accidents for reasons other than wet roads and the sun in your eyes.

The Brand Law Group wants to help our clients avoid accidents due to slippery roads and glaring sun. Here are some tips for avoiding accidents in inclement weather and what you can do if you are involved in a weather-related accident.

It Never Rains in California

According to the song, when it does, it pours. Driving in the rain is a problem for many Californians, less because rain is infrequent, but because the nature of the roads leads to other driving hazards.

• Oil and dirt build up. The first hours after a rain are the most dangerous, especially after a long dry spell. Oil, gas, and other debris build up on the road surface, and mix with water, forming a slick surface. Until this mixture washes away, roads are dangerous for high-speed drivers.

• Hydroplaning. The oily surface can make it difficult for water to drain off, creating the cushion of water that causes hydroplaning. Even with four-wheel or all-wheel drive, it takes only a moment with the wheels off the road for accidents to happen.

• Potholes and low spots. Until debris washes into the storm drains, potholes, intersections, and other low areas fill with water. They appear level with the roadway until you drive into them. In desert areas, dry washes fill with running water deep enough to float a car in a very short time.

• Lack of visibility. High-speed driving on freeways creates a fine spray that can outpace most windshield wipers. High winds inland and near the coast make visibility worse.

The best thing you can do in rainy weather is slow down. Even with anti-lock brakes, it takes much farther to stop on wet pavement than on dry. If the puddles are deep enough, anti-lock brakes and all-wheel drive will not help. Remember to increase your following distance. On freeways, keep an extra distance between yourself and big rigs, which need twice as much room to stop.

Gotta Wear Shades

You may not think of hot weather as especially hazardous for driving but think again. Getting stuck in traffic is hard on an engine. Make sure your oil and coolant are topped up before the heat sets in. Breakdowns in the traffic lane are frightening and major causes of accidents.

If your car does break down on the freeway, try to exit the roadway if you can. If not, stay inside your vehicle until help arrives. Do not try to get out of your car and walk across traffic lanes to the side of the road. Never try to push your car to the shoulder.

Many summer accidents happen at dawn or sunset. Many Los Angeles freeways are oriented almost due east and west, meaning drivers look directly into the sun during their morning and evening commute. If that is you, use extra caution during the dawn and sunset hours, wear dark sunglasses, and pay attention to what’s in front of you.

If you are involved in an accident, the CHP recommends moving to the shoulder if the accident is minor. If you are seriously injured, stay in your car until the fire department arrives. Then call the Brand Law Group to discuss your next steps. Contact us today to discuss your case.