With multiple tropical storms that hit the Gulf Coast each year, people in Florida face severe risks whenever driving in extreme weather conditions. They are certainly used to driving in the rain, and it is crucial to adjust driving styles to prevailing road and weather conditions. Those who drive negligently risk not only their own lives but also the lives of their passengers and other road users.
The following safety tips might prevent crashes in extreme weather conditions:
- According to Florida law, drivers must switch the headlights on whenever they use the windshield wipers.
- Hazard lights may only be activated if the vehicle is stationary on the road’s shoulder or legally stopped — exceptions include driving in a funeral procession.
- Extra caution is necessary for high wind conditions, especially when sharing the road with buses and big rigs.
- Strong winds are more prevalent in wide-open spaces, highway overpasses and bridges, requiring a firm grip on the steering wheel.
- Do not drive through areas where floodwaters cover the roadway because washed-out surfaces, debris or power lines could be concealed.
- Extreme weather conditions might cause traffic lights to fail, and drivers should be prepared to be alert and cautious when crossing intersections in such circumstances.
Anyone in Florida who falls victim to a negligent driver in extreme weather conditions may have to deal with financial, physical and emotional consequences. If another party’s negligence is apparent, crash victims could have grounds to file civil lawsuits. Personal injury claims that are successfully presented might yield monetary judgments to cover economic and non-economic damages. The same applies if loved ones were killed in accidents, and wrongful death lawsuits are filed.