What to do when you hydroplane (asking for a friend) and other tips for storm driving
When foul weather is in the forecast in Whatcom County and the Pacific Northwest, some drivers forget that special care is required on the road.
Trooper Heather Axtman of the Washington State Patrol urges drivers to use their headlights at all times, even in the daylight.
“Even though it’s not required, it’s still important,” Axtman told The Bellingham Herald. “(Pedestrians, bicyclists and other drivers) see you better with your headlights on — but you also see them.”
Axtman also cautions against hitting your brakes if you skid or “hydroplane” on a rain-slick road.
“Don’t hit your brakes. That’s what causes spinning. Just release your foot off the gas,” she said.
Here are some tips if you’re driving in foul weather from Travelers.com, AAA, the Washington State Patrol and the Washington state Department of Transportation:
Rain
▪ Drive slower.
▪ Don’t drive through standing water.
▪ Turn on headlights.
▪ Leave more space for the car ahead.
▪ Don’t use cruise control.
▪ Keep your gas tank full to give your car more weight and traction.
Snow
▪ Drive slower.
▪ Leave more space for the car ahead.
▪ Don’t use high beams.
▪ Check road conditions with the WSDOT app.
▪ Carry an emergency kit in your car.
Wind
▪ Drive slower.
▪ Leave more space for the car ahead.
▪ Keep an eye on high-profile trucks and SUVs that could be buffeted by high wind.
This story was originally published December 20, 2019 at 5:00 AM.
