Tips for driving in the rain
The Las Cruces Police Department recommends following these and other safety tips for driving in the rain:
Slow down. Allow for more travel time when driving in wet weather.
When coming to a stop, begin slowing down sooner and apply gentle brake pressure. Avoid slamming on brakes.
Allow for greater distance between vehicles. Normal driving conditions recommend travelling at least two seconds behind vehicles. During wet weather it is recommended to increase that distance.
Give larger vehicles, like trucks and buses, more room for stops and turns.
Avoid making sudden turns or lane changes.
Drive around puddles as sitting water may be deeper than what it appears.
Never attempt to drive through flooded arroyos or running water. Even when driving a large vehicle, like a truck or SUV, fast-moving water can easily overcome it.
Drive with headlights on and be alert to surrounding traffic and changing weather conditions.
If rain is too heavy or streets are flooded, pull over to a safe distance from the roadway – in a parking lot or away from traffic – until conditions improve.
Drivers are also reminded to slow down and safely change lanes, if possible, when approaching an emergency vehicle with lights flashing. Passing vehicles should maintain a safe distance between their lane of traffic and the emergency responder.
If the emergency vehicle is approaching from the rear drivers are required to slow down, safely merge to the right and come to a complete stop until the emergency vehicle passes.
