Hurricanes Helene and Milton are just two of the most recent tropical cyclones to batter the Sunshine State. Some 120 hurricanes have hit the state since 1851, the most of any other state in the nation. Each time a tropical storm of any severity strikes, the effects can be felt for weeks and in cities hundreds of miles away.
Even if your town isn’t in a storm’s direct path, you could still find your daily routine disrupted by wind, rain, and other extreme weather conditions it causes. By recognizing these potential hazards, you and your loved ones will be better prepared to weather the next tropical storm, no matter where it happens to land.
5 Ways Tropical Storms Affect Road Conditions
When meteorologists advise the public of an impending tropical storm, you must tune in for regular updates until the storm passes. Every storm behaves differently, and receiving timely information about the storm’s path and characteristics is vital for staying safe.
It’s important to note that with any hurricane or tropical storm that hits Florida, the roads in your area could be affected by any of the following conditions:
1. Flooding
Tropical storms can drop a tremendous amount of rain in a short period. Local bodies of water can flood their banks and spill onto roads, making traveling by car treacherous, even deadly.
It only takes around two inches of moving water for many motor vehicles to lose control due to a loss of traction. Four inches of water is enough to reach the bottom of low-profile vehicles like sports cars, and 12 inches can sweep away small passenger cars.
Never try to drive over a road that’s covered in water, as there’s no way to know how deep the water is. At best, you could lose control of your vehicle, leading to a car accident that injures you or a loved one. At worst, you could become trapped in your vehicle and carried off by floodwaters.
2. Rain
During Hurricane Milton, over 10 inches of rain fell in the Tampa area, and some areas saw as much as five inches of rainfall in a single hour.
Aside from the risk of flooding, this amount of rainfall poses an independent threat to motorists who venture out during a storm. As such, you should be mindful of the amount of rain predicted for your area, even if you aren’t in a hurricane’s or storm’s direct path.
Rapid rainfall can hinder visibility, making it challenging to see others on the road and avoid a car accident. This danger increases if you haven’t kept up with your car’s maintenance and your windshield wipers or other parts need replacement.
Additionally, roads can become slick with even a small amount of rainfall. Slow down and exercise caution if you must drive on roads that have no way to drain.
3. Decreased Visibility
Visibility can suffer during a storm with or without rain. Dark clouds can make driving during a storm similar to driving at night. Seeing where you’re going can be even more challenging if the wind is kicking up dust or debris.
Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, and check to make sure your windshield is clear and your wipers work well before trying to brave the road when a storm is approaching.
4. Wind
Although wind might not be the primary danger in a tropical storm, it can still make driving perilous.
A minor tropical storm can generate winds as strong as 39 miles per hour, which is more than enough to make controlling a vehicle difficult or impossible. The danger increases with the wind speed, especially if you drive a truck or other high-profile vehicle.
Listen to weather reports about the storm’s wind speed as it approaches, and don’t drive unless absolutely necessary, especially if other hazards like floodwaters or rain exist.
If you have no choice but to drive, go slow and allow plenty of space between your vehicle and others on the road. If you have trouble controlling your car, stop somewhere safe and let the storm pass.
5. Flying Debris
Wind doesn’t just make controlling your vehicle challenging. It can topple power lines and trees, send large objects flying through the air, and create hazardous conditions on the road. Those who lived in any of the areas affected by the tornadoes Hurricane Milton spawned experienced this devastating reality firsthand.
40 mph wind gusts are enough to damage trees, power lines, and small structures. If the winds in your area are forecast to exceed this limit, consider remaining indoors until the threat passes.
What to Do if You’re Involved in a Car Accident During a Storm
Getting in a car wreck during a tropical storm or hurricane can be frightening. It’s also a potentially lethal situation, especially considering that first responders may not be able to reach you quickly. If you crash your car in the middle of any type of storm, it’s critical to keep these tips in mind:
- Get yourself to a safe location immediately, remembering that floodwaters are often the most significant danger in a tropical storm
- Seek shelter in a sturdy building away from glass doors or windows
- Don’t return to your car for any personal belongings
- Contact 911 as soon as possible to report the accident and your location
If you must go out when a storm is approaching, tell a friend or family member about your plans. If this person knows your route and the estimated return time, they can contact first responders if you don’t come back. This will help rescue professionals reach you quickly, even if you can’t call them yourself.
If you get into a car accident with another driver, your survival and safety are paramount.
Wait until you’re safe and the immediate danger passes to exchange information with the other driver. Your personal injury protection (PIP) policy will cover some of your medical bills, and you can consult a car accident lawyer about other possible avenues for seeking compensation.
Trust Schrier Law Group to Be There for You
Regardless of the circumstances under which your car accident occurs, the experienced car accident lawyers at Schrier Law Group are prepared to come to your aid.
Our skilled legal professionals will help you obtain the benefits and compensation you deserve following your wreck. Contact our office today and request your consultation with a capable and compassionate attorney.
