LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – As we approach the rainy season, the California Highway Patrol is during drivers to remember some safety tips as they drive in wet weather.

Many crashes result from driving too fast, so the first and foremost tip is slow down, the CHP said.

It’s a simple matter of physics that your vehicle can’t stop as fast or turn as accurately on wet or icy pavement. In fog, reduced speed is equally important because vision is impaired.

Prepare for potential inclement weather by leaving early, allowing plenty of time to get where you’re going. Make sure your gas tank is full. Always leave ample distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.

Check to see that your windshield wipers are in good condition. And don’t forget the law requires you to have your headlights on anytime the windshield wipers are operating continuously.

Check in advance for road conditions by calling: 1-800-427-7623 (when inside California); 1 916 445 1534 (when outside California); 1-702-793-1313 (Nevada road conditions).

According to the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) in 2008 (the most recent year of finalized data), 175 victims were killed and another 12,737 were injured in vehicle crashes that occurred in rainy, foggy or snowy conditions throughout the state.

If you’re heading to mountain country or anywhere you may encounter snow bring chains, chain tighteners, and warm, waterproof clothing. Other items which may prove useful: flares, flashlight and strong batteries, small shovel, windshield scraper, blankets, drinking water and snacks.

Studded tires may be used only between Nov. 1 and April 1 with this exception: The law now allows the use of pneumatic tires with retractable metal-type studs year round, as long as the studs are retracted between May 1 through Oct. 31. The law prohibits a tire with retractable metal-type studs on a vehicle from being worn to a point that the studs protrude beyond the tire tread when retracted.

 

If you’re driving in rain stay alert for potential hydroplaning, apply brakes slowly, be sure headlights are on, and maintain proper following distance.

 

If you’re driving in fog keep headlights on low beam, don’t stop on the roadway (except in emergency), move away from a stalled or disabled vehicle, watch for CHP pace vehicles which may be guiding traffic through fog, consider turning off the road and waiting until the fog eases.

Winter Driving Tips are available at www.chp.ca.gov.

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