AAA Mid-Atlantic: Weekend Weather Triple Threat –

Rain, Wind and Wet Leaves

Water, wind and fallen leaves can have a dangerous impact on driving conditions

PHILADELPHIA, PA (October 29, 2017) The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for the Delaware Valley for today into Monday, which includes a triple threat – heavy rain, wind gusts, and one last ingredient many drivers don’t think much about – leaves.  AAA Mid-Atlantic has tips to help drivers handle all three.

“This weekend’s weather brings together elements that can make travel on the road dicey,” said Jana Tidwell, manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic.  “Although Fall foliage is beautiful, rain will turn colorful leaves into a serious driving hazard.  Wet leaves can be slippery as ice and reduce traction.  Motorists should be aware of the dangers and travel with caution.”

ROAD RISK – Rain

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown! As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your car and potentially stall your engine.  Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads. Turn around; find another way to get to your destination.  Pull over to a safe location if needed.

• Seek higher ground - If your vehicle stalls or is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately.

• Never drive through standing water - Standing water can be deceiving and motorists should avoid it. No matter how shallow it may appear, water may be concealing downed power lines, be deeper than it appears, or have significant force from flooding, etc.

• Watch for hydroplaning - No car is immune from hydroplaning on wet surfaces, including four-wheel drive vehicles. Even if brakes work under normal conditions that doesn’t mean they will react the same on slippery roads where tires roll with less traction. Also, turn off cruise control as it can cause hydroplaning.

• Take the nearest exit - If conditions worsen to the point where there is any doubt about your safety, take the nearest exit. Don’t just stop on the shoulder or under a bridge. If your visibility is compromised, other drivers may be struggling too.

   

  ROAD RISK – Wind

   

• Firmly grip the steering wheel - Light cars, vans and other "boxy" vehicles have a tendency to be blown by strong gusts of wind.

• Increase space between your vehicle and others – This is especially important around vans, recreational vehicles and cars pulling trailers, all of which could be adversely affected by the wind.

• Gusts of wind can be compounded - Busses, trucks and other large vehicles can cause an additional, powerful blast of air when passing your vehicle from either direction.

ROAD RISK – Wet Leaves

• Wet leaves pose a serious risk to motorists - Driving on them is similar to driving on ice.

• Remove any leaves from your windshield – To maintain good visibility and prevent leaves from getting stuck under your wiper blades when wet, clearing them should be done before starting your car.

• Increase your following distance - Stopping on a slippery surface like fallen leaves requires more space between your vehicle and others you share the road with.

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AAA provides automotive, travel and insurance services to 57 million members nationwide and more than three million members in Pennsylvania.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.  The not-for-profit, fully tax-paying member organization works on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android.  For more information, visit www.AAA.com.