As personal injury attorneys living in and serving the Sacramento area, we’ve seen how quickly a routine drive can turn into a serious accident, especially once the rainy season arrives. While we’re always here to help after an injury, our priority is helping our neighbors avoid accidents whenever possible.
With winter weather ahead, now is the time to make sure your vehicle is ready for the road. A few small maintenance steps can make a big difference in keeping you (and everyone else) safe this winter.
1. Check Your Tires—Wet Roads Demand It
Sacramento’s first big storms of the season often catch drivers off guard after months of dry weather. Oil and debris build up on the pavement, making roads especially slick when it first rains. Good tires are your best protection against hydroplaning and loss of control.
Here’s what to do before you hit the road:
- Inspect your tread: Try the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace your tires.
- Check your pressure: Cold mornings can cause tire pressure to drop. Check it monthly and fill to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. (You can usually find the PSI info on a sticker on the inside of the car door frame.)
- Rotate and align: Uneven wear can affect handling in wet conditions. Rotating your tires every 5,000–7,500 miles keep them balanced and road-ready.
2. Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance
A few quick checks can prevent breakdowns and improve visibility when rain is coming down hard on the roads:
- Wipers and washer fluid: California’s hot sun can dry out wiper blades over the summer months. Replace them now and refill with a winter-grade washer fluid.
- Brakes: If you hear squeaking or grinding, don’t ignore it; wet conditions make braking distances longer.
- Battery: Chilly mornings can weaken older batteries. Have yours tested before winter truly sets in.
- Lights: Make sure your headlights and taillights are clear and bright — visibility is key in fog and heavy rain.
3. Adjust Your Driving for Wet Roads
Even with a well-maintained car, rainy conditions require extra caution:
- Slow down: Roads can pool water in low spots. Driving slower gives your tires better grip and reaction time.
- Increase following distance: Keep at least five seconds between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Avoid hard braking: If you start to hydroplane, ease off the gas and steer gently in the direction you want to go — don’t slam the brakes.
- Watch for pedestrians and cyclists: Rain and glare reduce visibility for everyone.
4. Prepare an Emergency Kit
You never expect to get stranded, but it’s smart to be ready. Keep a small kit with jumper cables, a flashlight, a blanket, gloves, water, and a first-aid kit in your trunk.
At CWC, we’re proud to serve the Sacramento community — not just in the courtroom, but through safety education and public awareness. Taking a few minutes to prepare your vehicle now could prevent a collision later and help protect you, your passengers, and others on the road.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, we’re here to help. Our experienced team will listen, guide you through your options, and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
Drive safe, Sacramento!
Disclaimer
The content provided is for general information purposes only. Please refer to the disclaimer of Carter Wolden Curtis, LLP for more details.