Published on Sunday, June 11, 2006
in the Central Florida News 13

Wet Weather Driving

The several inches of rain expected here could make Central Florida roads a nightmare.

State troopers say roads are the slickest right after it begins raining from all the oil. Plus, it hasn't rained in a while and people are not used to driving during wet conditions.

So, troopers advise allowing more time to make your trip so you're not in a hurry.

Also, turn on your headlights to allow you to see, and others to see you.

Don't drive through running water since it could wash away your car, and avoid puddles which could cause you to hydroplane and lose control.

"We want people to remember people need to decrease their speed, and increase the distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them," Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Kim Miller said.

Trooper ask drivers to check that their windshield wipers work properly and replace frayed blades, properly inflate their tires for better traction, and check tire treads, since 40 percent of all rainy weather crashes are a direct result of worn out tires.

Troopers say if you can't see during blinding rain, pull completely off the road and turn on your emergency flashers.