Spring in Missouri brings much needed warmth and plenty of rainfall. While the change in seasons is welcome after a long winter, the increase in rainy days also brings a spike in weather-related car accidents. Rain doesn’t just make roads wet, it impacts visibility, reduces traction, and challenges even experienced drivers.
Avoiding an accident during Missouri’s rainy spring season often comes down to preparation and attentiveness. Unfortunately, not every driver takes these precautions. If you’ve been injured in a rain-related accident because another driver was careless or unprepared, you may be entitled to compensation under Missouri law.
Why Rainy Conditions Are Dangerous
Rain changes everything about how a car handles. Even a small amount of water can reduce tire traction, increase braking distance, and make it harder to maintain control, especially at higher speeds. In Missouri, where spring storms can develop quickly, drivers often get caught off guard. Hydroplaning, rear-end collisions, and intersection accidents become more common, particularly on highways and in urban areas with poor drainage.
Driving Tips to Stay Safe in the Rain
While you can’t control the weather, you can control how you drive in it. Following these tips can reduce your risk of an accident during Missouri’s rainy months:
1. Slow Down When Roads Are Wet
Even if the posted speed limit is 65 mph, wet roads make that speed unsafe. Lowering your speed helps your tires maintain better contact with the road, which is essential for braking and steering in rainy conditions.
2. Increase Your Following Distance
In ideal conditions, you should stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. In the rain, double that. The extra space gives you more time to react and helps avoid rear-end collisions, which are common in wet weather.
3. Check Your Tires
Tires with low tread can’t grip wet roads effectively. Bald tires are especially dangerous when it’s raining, increasing your risk of hydroplaning. Make sure your tires have adequate tread and are properly inflated.
4. Use Headlights, Not Hazards
When visibility drops due to heavy rain, turn on your headlights, even during the day. This helps other drivers see you. However, avoid using your hazard lights unless you’re pulled over, as it can confuse other drivers.
5. Avoid Sudden Movements
Sharp turns, quick lane changes, or slamming on the brakes can cause a vehicle to skid. When driving in rain, keep your movements smooth and deliberate to maintain control.
When Another Driver Doesn’t Adjust for the Weather
Safe driving in the rain isn’t just good advice, it’s a responsibility. Missouri drivers are expected to adjust their behavior to match road conditions. If a driver speeds, tailgates, or fails to slow down in the rain and causes an accident, they can be held responsible for the harm they cause.
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, which means an injured person can still recover damages even if they were partially at fault. Under pure comparative fault, an injured person is entitled to the percentage of damages equal to the percentage of fault that the judge or jury accesses to the other party.
If You’ve Been Injured in a Rain-Related Accident
Rain may play a role in many accidents, but that doesn’t mean it excuses negligent driving. If you’ve been hurt in a Missouri car accident during spring weather, it’s important to act quickly.
At Dreyer & Tinney, we help clients navigate the legal aftermath of weather-related crashes. From gathering evidence to dealing with insurance companies, our team is here to advocate for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one was injured in a rainy weather accident, contact Dreyer & Tinney today to schedule your consultation.