Safe Driving Tips for Poor Weather in Texas

East Texas is known for heat and humidity, but our weather is highly variable and sometimes extreme in ways that go beyond heat. In this article, we’ll highlight weather conditions that affect driving in East Texas that could cause an auto accident. We’ll also offer tips on how to stay safe when driving in less-than-ideal weather.

Examples of Weather That Affects Driving Conditions in Dallas-Fort Worth

The DFW area and the entire region of East Texas can present challenging weather conditions for drivers. Here are some of the most common.

• Heavy rain: We’re prone to serious rainstorms, especially in the spring and fall. Sudden downpours can cause flash floods. Sometimes hail is mixed in as well. Intense rain makes it hard for drivers to see, and wet roads mean longer braking distances and increased risk of hydroplaning.
• Wind and tornadoes: Strong winds sweep across the flat landscape, kicking up dust and lowering visibility. Tornadoes are not especially common in our area, but they do happen and pose an obvious hazard for drivers and everyone in the vicinity.
• Fog: Dense fog, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings, can greatly reduce visibility on the road.
• Snow and ice: Though winter storms are rare, DFW does sometimes have snow and ice events. It doesn’t take much snow or ice to affect everything from the power grid to the roadways.

Driving Tips for Bad Weather in Texas

Follow these driving safety tips to reduce the chances of being involved in a bad-weather vehicle crash.

1. Slow down: Wet or icy roads make it much harder to stop and steer. Slow down significantly or, if the conditions warrant it, pull off the road and wait for the weather to pass.
2. Increase following distance: In normal driving conditions, keeping a three-second following distance is recommended. In poor weather, double that. Keeping extra space between you and the vehicle ahead of you gives you more time to react if needed.
3. Avoid sudden maneuvers: Trying to swerve or brake hard on wet roads makes it more likely that your tires will lose grip and your car could skid.
4. Have good tires: Make sure your tires are in good condition. They should have plenty of tread, but even if they look like they have enough, they might be too old. Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires that are more than six or seven years old, even if they don’t have many miles on them.
5. Keep your car maintained: Be sure your windshield wipers are in good shape and that all your various wiper speeds work. Make sure the defroster in your car works, as you’ll need to use it to keep your glass from fogging up in humid or cold weather.

Get Legal Help After a Weather-Related Crash

Not all drivers will adjust to the weather. These drivers pose risks to others. If you’ve been injured in bad weather because of another driver’s actions, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Ted Lyon & Associates at 877-Ted-Lyon or contact our Dallas firm online to find out how our attorneys can help. We offer a free initial consultation.