Driving in the rain can be dangerous and it's important to take wet weather seriously when you're on the road. There are lots of things you can do to make driving in the rain safer, including being prepared by making sure your car is ready and ensuring you can always see properly. But most importantly, you have to drive according to the conditions, and adjust a few of your habits to avoid sliding, skidding, or being involved in a collision.
Here are a few of our favorite safety tips for driving in the rain.
1. Slow down. During any inclement weather or unfavorable driving conditions, your first reaction should always be to adjust your speed accordingly. Driving 50mph in the rain is not the same as driving 50mph on dry roads. SLOW DOWN.
2. Turn on your windshield wipers. Visibility is of the utmost importance, so make sure your wipers are in good working condition.
3. Turn your lights on. When it starts to rain, turn on your headlights immediately, regardless of whether it's day or night. California law requires drivers to turn some sort of headlights on (daytime running lights are ok) whenever you activate your windshield wipers.
4. Stay five seconds behind the car in front of you. Create space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to allow yourself ample time and space to stop if need be.
5. Avoid slamming on the brakes. Slamming on the brakes can cause you to slide forward, and you won't be able to control the car. Instead, follow tip #4 and give yourself plenty of room to stop.
Following a few simple safety tips and giving yourself a few extra minutes of driving time will increase your chances of arriving at your destination safely.
Edward Ramirez, Captain
West Hollywood Sheriff's Station
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
780 N San Vicente Boulevard
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 855-8850
Website: http://www.WestHollywood.lasd.org/
Website: www.WeHoSheriff.com
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West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station polices the City of West Hollywood and the unincorporated communities of Franklin Canyon, Universal City (which includes Universal Theme Park, Studios, and Citywalk), and the Federal Enclave in West Los Angeles.
Partner to prevent or report crime by contacting the West Hollywood station. Or, if you wish to remain anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the website
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Alex Villaneuva, Sheriff
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
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