Auto Club Offers Driving Tips During Rain Storms.

Business Editors & Transportation Writers

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 12, 2003

As heavy winter rain pounds Southern California today, motorists can anticipate driving hazards even at moderate speeds caused by decreased visibility, slippery roads and wind gusts, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California.

"Most crashes are preventable if motorists pay extra attention," said Arline Dillman, Ph.D., chief Auto Club safety expert. "Reduced visibility and slick surfaces mean that motorists will need to modify their normal weather driving habits. Higher elevations may even see snow covered roads which will require vigilant driving."

To avoid crashes, the Auto Club makes the following recommendations for safer driving:

-- Slow down.

Motorists should drive slowly, particularly through puddles. Hitting several inches of water at high speeds can cause a driver to lose control of the car. Fast driving through puddles may also push or splash water into the engine and cause it to stall. Driving at slower speeds helps drivers be prepared for sudden stops due to disabled cars, debris, and other hazards associated with wet-weather driving.

-- Keep your distance.

A car needs two-to-three times more stopping distance on wet pavement, so allow extra following distance between cars. If the car skids and control is lost, do not slam on the brakes. Instead apply the brakes with a steady, light but firm pressure. Remember to steer in the direction the car is sliding. When traction is regained, steering control will return. For cars equipped with anti-lock brakes, drivers should apply heavy steady pressure, but not pump the brakes.

-- Use the center lanes.

When driving during heavy rain, use center lanes of the road (without straddling the yellow line). Avoid outside lanes where water collects at curbside.

-- Avoid distractions.

Motorists are advised to minimize eating, drinking, cellular phone use, tuning stereo or applying makeup while driving, particularly in the rain. If it's necessary to engage in these activities, pull over and stop in a safe place.

-- Stay informed.

Tune into radio and television weather reports to know where flood warning areas or traffic congestion might be located. If possible, avoid these areas.

Car maintenance:

Car maintenance needs increase during wet weather. Motorists are advised to follow this checklist:

-- Check brakes periodically.

After driving through a puddle, check that brakes are working properly by tapping them gently a few times.

-- Use headlights and windshield defroster.

Driving in the rain means reduced visibility. The Auto Club recommends that motorists turn on the vehicle's headlights so they can see and be seen. Turning on the defroster helps keep the inside of the windshield clear of moisture.

-- Check tires.

Make sure tires are in good condition and are at the recommended inflation level. Driving with bald tires on a slippery surface is a major factor in skidding. Tires should have at least 1/32nd of an inch tread depth at any two adjacent grooves, the minimum allowable by law. Driving on tires that are over inflated or under-inflated is also extremely dangerous on wet pavement.

-- Make sure windshield wiper blades are in good condition.

Streaks or skipping on the vehicle's windshield are signs of worn wiper blades. Inspect wipers once a month and check washer solvent reservoir to ensure it's full.

The Automobile Club of Southern California, the largest affiliate of the AAA, has been serving members since 1900. Today, Auto Club members benefit by the organization's emergency road service, financial products, travel agency and trip planning services, highway and transportation safety programs, insurance products and services, automotive pricing, buying and financing programs and legislative advocacy.