Here in New Orleans, we’re no strangers to quickly changing weather, especially in the spring, when the forecast can go from sunny skies to pop-up showers—all within a single afternoon. Ahead of another round of forecasted storms, it’s important for drivers in New Orleans and throughout Southeast Louisiana to follow safe driving practices. No matter the weather, driving defensively, avoiding distractions, and following the rules of the road are just some of the simple, effective things we can all do to keep ourselves and others safe.
Slow Down & Adjust Your Speed
Whether it’s rainy, foggy, or windy, one of the most important things to remember when driving in inclement weather is to simply slow down. This is important for several reasons:
- Reduced Stopping Time: First, slick, wet roads reduce your tires’ grip, which means it takes longer to stop. Driving at a slower speed allows you to react more quickly to any sudden changes in road conditions and gives you more time to stop if needed.
- Reduced Visibility: Second, rainy or foggy conditions significantly reduce visibility, meaning you have less time to react when driving conditions or traffic patterns change. Slowing down allows you to carefully navigate these situations as they arise.
- Flash Flooding: In New Orleans, heavy rain can create flash flooding on roadways, particularly in low-lying areas. Many streets near the Mississippi River and canals are prone to flooding, making it even more important to reduce your speed. This will help you navigate through puddles or flooded areas more safely.
When driving in heavy rain, it's wise to keep your speed well below the posted limit, especially on bridges or elevated roads where water might accumulate more quickly.
Keep Your Distance
When visibility is low, such as during a downpour or heavy fog, it's important to maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. The general rule of thumb is to stay at least three to four seconds behind the car ahead of you, but in bad weather, you should increase that distance to at least seven or eight seconds. This extra space gives you more time to react if the car in front of you suddenly stops or if the road conditions worsen.
New Orleans drivers, in particular, should be cautious when driving on streets that frequently flood, like the corner of Magazine Street and Saint Mary Street, as they may encounter large puddles that can cause hydroplaning. Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles allows you to respond more effectively if you hit a patch of standing water.
Use Your Headlights Wisely
When the rain is pouring down or heavy fog blankets the road, your headlights are your best tool for maintaining visibility. In New Orleans, some of the city’s narrow streets and dark intersections can become even more challenging to navigate when it’s stormy. Make sure your headlights are turned on, even during the day, so other drivers can see you. Avoid using your high beams in heavy rain, as the light will reflect off the water droplets and make it harder for you to see the road.
It's equally as important to check that your taillights are functioning properly. If your car is equipped with fog lights, use them to improve visibility in foggy or misty conditions, which are common during storms in our area.
Avoid Standing Water & Flooded Areas
New Orleans is known for its frequent flooding, especially during stormy weather. Standing water can quickly become a major hazard. Even if the water doesn’t seem deep, driving through it can lead to dangerous situations. As little as six inches of standing water can cause a car to lose control, while a foot of water can cause most vehicles to float, risking being swept away.
If you come across a flooded area, turn around and find an alternative route. It's important to remember that water can rise quickly, and the floodwaters in some New Orleans neighborhoods can increase rapidly during heavy rainfall. Pay attention to local advisories and road closures to avoid flooded streets.
Avoid Sudden Braking or Sharp Turns
When road conditions are slick, such as in the wake of a sudden rain shower or heavy storm, it’s important to drive smoothly and steadily. Sudden braking or sharp turns can cause your car to lose traction, leading you to lose control of the vehicle. When braking, try to apply gradual and steady pressure to the brake pedal. If you feel your vehicle starting to slide or hydroplane, take your foot off the accelerator gently, steer in the direction you want to go, and avoid slamming on the brakes.
Use Caution on Bridges & Elevated Roads
The New Orleans area is home to several elevated roadways and bridges, like the Claiborne Expressway and the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which are particularly vulnerable during bad weather. These structures tend to become windier and more treacherous in stormy conditions. If winds are particularly strong, slow down and keep both hands on the wheel for better control.
Also, keep in mind that bridges and overpasses can be more prone to icing during cold weather. Even though New Orleans doesn’t usually experience snow or ice, major cold fronts have been known to roll through the area. In extreme cases, you might encounter slick or icy spots during storms.
Maintain a Firm Grip on the Wheel
In windy conditions, especially on elevated roads or bridges, strong gusts can push your vehicle unexpectedly, causing it to veer off course. To maintain control, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands. Though old recommendations advised keeping hands at the “10 and 2” position, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) now recommends placing your hands at “9 and 3” for maximum vehicle control. To do this, simply imagine your steering wheel as a clock and place your left hand where the number 9 would be, and your right hand where the number 3 would be on the clock. Both hands should be on the outside of the wheel with thumbs facing up along the steering wheel’s face.
Maintaining the proper hand positions will help you correct any sudden steering adjustments and maintain a straight line, especially if wind gusts are strong. Make small, gentle steering adjustments rather than large movements, as these can cause you to overcorrect and lose control.
Be Cautious of High-Profile Vehicles & Objects
Wind can have a greater impact on larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, and vans, which are more susceptible to being pushed or swayed by strong gusts. If you’re driving near these types of vehicles in windy conditions, maintain a safe distance, as they might swerve unpredictably.
Additionally, watch out for debris on the road—fallen tree branches, construction materials, or other objects can easily be blown into your path. Stay alert to avoid collisions when these windblown hazards are present.
Check Your Vehicle’s Tires & Brakes
Before heading out on stormy roads, take a moment to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition. In particular, make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to grip wet roads. Worn tires are more prone to hydroplaning, which can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Similarly, check your brake pads to ensure they are functioning correctly, as you may need to stop suddenly in bad weather.
If it’s been a while since you replaced your windshield wipers, it might be time to do so. Windshield wipers can quickly become clogged or worn out in stormy weather. Replacing old wiper blades and ensuring your wiper fluid is full can greatly improve visibility during heavy rain.
Prepare for Power Outages & Traffic Disruptions
During major storms, it’s not uncommon for our area to experience power outages and traffic disruptions. The best thing to do during severe storms is to stay home, but if you must drive, make sure you stay informed through local news, traffic apps, or the Louisiana Department of Transportation to keep up with current road conditions and closures. If you do encounter a power outage at an intersection, treat it as a four-way stop.
Always Drive Safely in Storms to Avoid Accidents
Driving in New Orleans during bad weather can be challenging, but by following these safety tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident and ensure your safety, as well as the safety of others on the road. Always remember to adjust your speed, maintain a safe distance, and stay alert to changing road conditions, especially in stormy weather. Keep your vehicle in good condition and be prepared for potential flooding or traffic disruptions.
If you are involved in an accident, whether it’s stormy or not, it's important to reach out to a qualified personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process. If someone else was at fault for the crash, you could be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. An attorney can help you not only seek this fair compensation you need but also work to hold the responsible party accountable so that you can get the justice you deserve.