The rain has been heavy lately and the roads are flooded. Traffic crashes seem to be happening more frequently. The DeFuniak Springs Police want to remind motorists of some safety tips to help you arrive safely at your destination.
• Slow Down - Hydroplaning and sliding are some of the results of driving too fast in wet conditions. A driver’s best defense is to drive slower, and in extreme rain, pull over until it clears. This may mean leaving earlier to allow for more travel time.
• Follow Safely – Motorists should increase following distance in inclement weather. The gauge you should use is the 4 second rule. Simply explained, when the vehicle in front of you passes a roadside fixed object, start counting the seconds (one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three, and one thousand four). You should not pass the same object until after you say four. If you do, allow more space between your vehicle and theirs.
• Lights On – Turn on your low beam headlights, even in the daytime, so that other motorists can see you when visibility is reduced to rain or fog. Parking lights are for just that and are not sufficient during rain. Do it for safety - it’s the law!
• Don’t Flash – That is, don’t turn on your four-way emergency (hazard lights) unless you are stopped. Four-way flashers are intended to warn passing motorists that you are not moving at all.
• Wipers On – If rain is obstructing your view, turn on your windshield wipers. If you do turn on your wipers, this should be a reminder to turn on your headlights.
• Don’t Text – Especially during inclement weather, put your phone aside until your vehicle is stopped. Use the hands free mode to talk on your phone.
Chief Weeks wants the motoring public to know that safety is the utmost concern and we want you to arrive alive.