Am I required to pull over by Law in Extreme Weather Conditions?

The Federal law, which applies to all vehicles, requires drivers to use extreme caution when driving in severe weather conditions. According to the Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, 7,4000 people are killed and 690,000 are injured in weather-related vehicle accidents each year.

Heavy rain and flash flooding create hazardous driving conditions, thereby increasing the likelihood of an accident. To help improve safety and reduce the event of a crash, motorists should take the following precautions:

Allow more travel time and keep vehicle tires and brakes in good working condition. Buckle your own seat belt and secure children in child safety seats of booster seats in the back of the vehicle.

Reduce your speed and drive defensively. Motorists should drive at least five to ten miles per hour slower on wet pavement and allow twice the normal following distance between cars to provide ample time to stop. Signal for turns ahead of time and brake early as you near a stop.

If you can't pull off the roadway, proceed at a speed suitable for visibility; turn on lights and sound horn occasionally. Use the painted centerline to help guide you. Look for a safe place to pull off the roadway. Never stop on the traveled portion of the roadway.

Stay in your vehicle and wait for the rain to subside. Once you have successfully pulled over, turn on your emergency flashers. Stay away from any trees or other tall objects. If you take shelter under an overpass or bridge, park on the shoulder and be careful not to block traffic. The weather could reduce visibility and other drivers may have difficulty seeing you.