First Rains of the Fall Can Lead to Serious Trouble on Oregon Roads
Oil and grease don’t wash away during the dry season but come to the surface with the first rains of the fall and can make roads unexpectedly slick and treacherous.
(SALEM, Ore. ) — The first hours of rain following a long dry spell can lead to serious trouble on Oregon roads.
With the forecast calling for rain or showers over the next week, motorists throughout the state need to be aware of the hazards on the roads that can follow.
Oil and grease don’t wash away during the dry season but come to the surface with the first rains of the fall and can make roads unexpectedly slick and treacherous. The hazard often catches motorists by surprise and that’s often followed by an increase in crashes.
Here are some tips for driving in the rain:
Be aware of conditions:
Rain can create dangerous driving conditions with reduced visibility, reduced traction between tires and the road and less predictable car handling. When it’s raining, be cautious and give yourself more time to get where you are going.
Also remember to:
1. Slow down, especially through high water. Driving through several inches of water a high speed can cause you to lose control. Lowering your speed helps you watch out for sudden stops caused by disabled cars, debris and other hazards.
2. Turn on your headlights to improve visibility. Disengage your cruise control.
3. Keep your distance. A car needs two to three times more stopping distance on wet roads.
Maintain your vehicle:
1. The most common vehicle problems in wet weather involve wipers, brakes, tires and defrosters.
2. Check your wipers. Replace wiper blades regularly. Make sure your defroster is functioning properly, especially if you haven’t used it in a while.
3. Check your brakes. After driving through a puddle, make sure the brakes are working properly by tapping them gently a few times.
4. Check your tires. Make sure tires are in good condition and are at the recommended inflation level. Tires should have at least 1/32 of an inch tread depth at any two adjacent grooves, the minimum allowable by law. Driving on over-inflated or under-inflated tires is dangerous on wet pavement.
Watch for hydroplaning conditions:
Hydroplaning occurs when your front tires surf on a film of water. It can occur at speeds as low as 35 miles per hour, especially if tires are worn. If you hydroplane, ease off the gas, gently apply the brakes and steer straight ahead.
Source: Oregon Department of Transportation
