Wet pavements sometimes become the reason for devastating auto accidents. A wet pavement decreases traction on the roads. This adversely impacts the tackling factors and expands the stopping distance of a vehicle.
As a driver, you can reduce your likelihood of a crash caused by wet pavement by slowing down and making sure your vehicle’s tires and brakes are always in top condition. In this post, you will find some expert Houston injury attorney tips to do just that.
How Moisture Affects The Surface of The Road
There are several ways that moisture can make the pavement more treacherous. Moderate and light rain can make pavement slippery when it pools with oil and other pollutants on the road. This minimizes the friction between the road and the tires.
This is why most Houston injury attorneys agree that the most dangerous time to drive on a wet road is right after the rain has started to come down; this is when the oil starts to appear on the surface. If the tread on your tires is worn-out, the risk becomes even greater.
Additionally, rain can accumulate within the ruts, cracks, and potholes in the road. So when a driver speeds into these, their risk of blowing a tire or hydroplaning goes up significantly. If the driver uses cruise control and fails to slow down, it further contributes to the risk.
Why Tire Safety is Important
New tires can sometimes seem like an unnecessary expense, but when you think about the cost a worn or damaged tire can cause, buying new tires is worth the investment. No matter how good your tires are, they will wear out over time. Most tire manufacturers suggest replacing them once the tread goes down below the 4/32″ mark.
It should be noted that according to US laws, the minimum safe tread depth is 2/32”. Our Houston injury attorney also recommends that you should check your tires for indications of dry rot. If your tires are faded, cracked, or brittle, they can be dangerous even if they have plenty of treads.
Dry rot can lead to holes and leaks in your tires and make them more prone to a blowout. If the road is wet and slippery, hitting a pothole with a rotten tire can quickly make you lose control over your vehicle.
Contact A Houston Injury Attorney If You Were Hurt In A Wet Pavement Accident
If you were injured or you lost a loved one in an accident caused by an inattentive driver, contact a Houston injury attorney at Kirk Law Firm, PLLC. The careless driver could be held accountable for their actions and you might be owed compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Dana G. Kirk and his legal team at Kirk Law Firm, PLLC, is committed to bringing reckless drivers to justice and helping accident victims obtain maximum possible compensation for their losses. Reach us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
