How Inclement Weather in St. Louis Can Cause Missouri Car Wrecks
Here are ten types of inclement weather conditions that can significantly increase the risk of car crashes:
Rain: Even light rain reduces visibility due to rain-coated windshields and windows. Wet pavement also decreases traction, making it harder to brake and corner safely. Heavier downpours can cause hydroplaning, where tires lose contact with the road surface entirely.
Snow: Snowfall reduces visibility significantly, limiting a driver's ability to see other vehicles, pedestrians, and road hazards. Snow accumulation on the road makes braking and steering difficult, and icy patches hidden beneath the snow can cause treacherous driving conditions.
Sleet: A combination of freezing rain and snow pellets, sleet creates a particularly dangerous situation. The icy surface offers minimal traction, and sleet can quickly accumulate on windshields, further obscuring vision.
Black Ice: This is a thin layer of ice that forms on the road surface, often invisible to the naked eye. Black ice creates extremely slippery conditions and can cause vehicles to lose control unexpectedly.
Fog: Dense fog drastically reduces visibility, making it difficult to see even taillights or headlights of other vehicles. Fog can create a disorienting effect for drivers, leading to misjudged distances and potential collisions.
High Winds: Strong winds can push vehicles around, particularly high-profile vehicles like trucks or SUVs. Wind gusts can also make it difficult to control the steering wheel, especially on bridges or exposed roadways.
Blowing Dust/Sand: Dust storms or blowing sand can significantly reduce visibility similar to fog. Loose dust or sand on the road can also affect traction and make braking more challenging.
Hail: While typically short-lived, hailstorms can create hazardous driving conditions. Large hailstones can damage windshields and impair visibility. Additionally, hail can accumulate on the road surface and create a slippery layer.
Heavy Storms: Blizzards, hurricanes, and other severe weather events can combine multiple hazards like high winds, heavy rain, snow, or reduced visibility. These conditions can make driving extremely dangerous and should be avoided if possible.
Extreme Temperatures: Both very hot and very cold temperatures can impact a driver's ability to control a vehicle safely. Hot weather can cause tire pressure to increase, potentially leading to blowouts. Cold weather can stiffen car fluids, impacting braking performance. Additionally, extreme temperatures can lead to drowsiness or fatigue in drivers.
Remember: It's crucial to adjust your driving habits based on the weather conditions. Slow down, increase following distances, use headlights for better visibility, and be extra cautious during periods of inclement weather. If the weather is severe, it's always best to stay off the roads if possible.