With slick roads and decreased visibility, rainy weather forces drivers to be even more vigilant. Commercial truck operators must be especially careful since their vehicles are heavy. If you cause a trucking collision, you’re only eligible for workers' compensation if you were driving safely. The guide below outlines a few steps to follow to protect yourself and others on the road.

How to Drive a Truck on Rainy Days

1. Reduce Speed

Driving over wet pavement at 35 miles per hour or faster increases the risk of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning happens when the tires are exposed to more water than they can displace, causing the wheels to slide on top of puddles.

To keep full control over the vehicle, reduce your driving speed on wet pavement by one-third. Slowing down helps the rubber grip the road. Exceeding posted speed limits also affects your eligibility for workers’ compensation.

2. Increase Following Distance

In normal driving conditions, it can take a commercial truck approximately 525 feet to come to a complete stop. Even more distance is needed to avoid a crash when roads are slippery.

So you have enough time to respond to obstacles, double your following distance in wet weather. Typically, you should pass the same road markers as the cars ahead of you around three seconds later. On rainy days, pass markers six seconds later.

3. Remain Calm When Skidding

If tire tread loses traction and the truck starts to skid, don’t turn the steering wheel in a random direction. Doing so could make it even harder to regain control. Pressing down on the brake pedal could also lock the wheels. To recover quickly from hydroplaning, turn the steering wheel gently in the direction you want to travel.

Even when drivers follow the above tips, collisions can happen. If you were involved in an accident, contact the workers' compensation lawyers at Henry & Williams P.C. in West Plains, MO. Boasting over six decades of experience, the attorneys will review the circumstances of the incident and strive for the desired outcome. Visit the law firm online to take a look at their winning track record, or check out their Facebook page for testimonials from clients. Call (417) 256-8133 for a consultation.