Driving safety tips during storms

AAA Texas has shared some safety tips all drivers should be aware of during periods of heavy rain.

~Don’t try to drive on a road that’s covered in water, turn around and find an alternate route.

~If you find yourself in a situation where your car takes on water, leave the vehicle to get to safer, higher ground.

~Don’t use cruise control.  You get less traction on slick roads.

~Increase your following distance.  You’ll need more time to react to surrounding traffic.

~Drive more slowly to avoid hydroplaning.  AAA Texas says some tires can lose contact with the road even at 35 mph.

~If your vehicle begins to skid, remain calm.  Avoid slamming on your brakes; instead, look and steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go.

Turn on your headlights.

The NWS has emphasized that during a severe thunderstorm or tornado, people should never stop under a bridge or overpass.  The agency said a bridge does not offer protection from strong winds.  People can also cause an accident by being stopped under a bridge, the NWS said.

Water as shallow as six inches can stall a car or cause you to lose control.  If the water is one foot, smaller vehicles can be swept off the road.  If the road is flooded between 18 and 24 inches, larger vehicles can also be swept off the road.

Drive-Texas.org has an updated map of roads with hazards like flooding and debris, which you can check for safety before heading out the door.