Texas weather can be unpredictable and can leave many people questioning if they can trust the weatherman. Unfortunately, the severe weather that Texas has can lead to dangerous roads and increased accidents. Here are 4 tips to help you better prepare for Texas-size thunderstorms.
- Plan Ahead
Many problems that happen while driving in winter weather can be prevented by planning ahead before the severe weather warnings even begin.
- The most important thing to have for our severe weather is a good set of windshield wiper blades. In the DFW area, we often get rain downpours that can be unpredictable. Having reliable wiper blades will keep your view of the road clear. We recommend changing your wipers every six months to a year.
- Another way to plan ahead is to make sure you have good tires on your vehicle. Balding tires that have reduced tread are more likely to hydroplane with wet roads.
- It is always a good idea to have an emergency kit within your car. This kit should include but is not limited to: a flashlight with fresh batteries, jumper cables, blankets, and a lug wrench.
- Take Control of Your Vehicle
Make sure you know the appropriate functions of your vehicle. If you have anti-lock brakes, know how to use them in case of emergency. Never make sudden movements, like sharp turns or slamming on breaks.
- Slow Down and Take Your Time
It can be tempting to rush to your destination while it is pouring rain. In any kind of severe weather, make sure to slow down and not rush. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, you should reduce your speed by one third on wet roads. By a general rule, you should stay a minimum of 3 seconds behind the car in front of you.
- Be Ready for Extremely Severe Weather
Severe weather in Texas can take a turn from moderately severe to extremely severe very quickly. Here are some tips for those situations:
- In a Hailstorm, try to find a parking garage or covered parking where you can park your vehicle ahead of the storm. If you find yourself driving in a Hailstorm, if it is possible, try to angle your car to where the hail is hitting your windshield. Windshields are designed to take high impact, so this would be most optimal position for your vehicle.
- In a Tornadoes, do not try to outdrive the tornado. If you spot a funnel, get out of your car immediately and find the nearest shelter or lay down flat in the nearest/deepest ditch.
Severe weather, especially in the DFW metroplex, is something that is unavoidable. Follow these tips to ensure that you handle severe weather in the safest way possible. As always, if you live in Denton, Sanger, Krum or Argyle, and are in need of reliable hail repair, collision repair, or post-repair paint work, contact family-owned and operated Color Customs Collision today. Stay safe!
Color Custom Collisions is located at 936 Fort Worth Drive in Denton, Texas.