Tips for Driving During an Evacuation or Wet Weather

Hurricane Florence has already caused 14 fatalities, several of which were due to flooded roadways and driving during the dangerous weather.

With Hurricane Florence expected to provide enough precipitation to fill Chesapeake Bay, it’s a good time to review driving measures that can keep you and your family safe.

Here’s what you should know.

Prepare and Study Driving Directions

Days of using paper maps are long gone. However, when a tropical storm or other bad weather hits, the technology we rely on so often may be useless.

That’s why it’s important to have printed directions. A map allows you to find alternative routes in case of crashes, downed power lines or other obstacles.

Anticipate Gusts

High winds may be erratic. Keep your hands on the wheel and anticipate gusts of wind in open areas. Pay close attention to larger and higher vehicles, as they are susceptible to being pushed and may veer out of their lanes.

Avoid Water-Run Roads

Avoid any streets that appear to be covered with water because it’s difficult to tell how deep the water is. Instead, find a different route.

Always maintain several car lengths of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to avoid accidents. If you hydroplane, do not slam on the brakes. Instead, let off the gas and continue to steer in the direction you want to go.

When bad weather and evacuations occur, there will be many people on the road. In addition to modifying your behaviors for weather, keep other drivers in mind, too.

Don’t Use Cells in Heavy Traffic

Be patient. During an evacuation, traffic will start and stop regularly, but resist the urge to wile away the time on your cell. Doing so is illegal in many states and is a quick way to encourage road rage from drivers behind you.

If possible, consider taking alternative routes that will have less traffic, but always consider safety first. Rural areas may offer less available help in emergencies.

Lane Changes

Lane changes are a common cause of accidents. Nearly half of drivers don’t use turn signals when changing lanes.

If a driver switches lanes when it is not reasonably safe to do so, he or she may receive a ticket. Before switching lanes, always check over your shoulder and in your mirror, be aware of what other drivers are doing and use your turn signals.

Backing Up

In parking lots and at gas stations especially, watch other drivers. Many people will be in a hurry to leave. Stay calm and take your time.

When backing up, always check for cars and remember you do not have the right of way when backing up.

Drive Safe to Stay Safe

Of course, the number one rule is to avoid driving in bad weather and, in the event of an evacuation, to give yourself as much time as possible. Take your time, remain watchful and stay safe until the storm has passed.