Rainy and Dark Weather is Around the Corner! What Can You Do?

Rainy Weather

 

 

Rainy and Dark Weather is Around the Corner!

 

We've enjoyed some beautiful weather this last week, but our days are getting shorter! More dark hours and inclement weather can create hazardous conditions for all of us traveling via car, foot, or bike. We often see more collisions during the rainy season. No matter how you get around, let’s all avoid distractions and pay more attention during this time of year!

 

Drivers

  • Be on the lookout for cyclists and pedestrians.
  • Yield to pedestrians at all crosswalks and all intersections.
  • Obey signs and signals.
  • Slow down and increase your distance between you and the next car.
  • Avoid distractions when driving. Do not text or use a device while driving.
  • Stormy weather often results in downed trees and possibly downed power lines or traffic signs. Be on the lookout for road debris and hazards.
  • Get your car “rain-ready”. Check out the tread on your tires and your windshield wipers.
  • Do not drive through flooded roads.

 

Pedestrians

  • Obey signs and signals.
  • Wear bright colors and reflective gear. We hear that bright orange, yellow and white raincoats are super fashionable this season.
  • Carry a flashlight at night.
  • Cross the street in designated well-lit areas.
  • Washington law indicates that if there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far away from vehicles as possible. It is much safer to be able to observe traffic.
  • Be present. We understand that music and texting/talking on the phone are a part of your life, but while crossing the street or walking on the road, please turn down the volume/pause the conversation, and look around.

Cyclists

  • Obey signs and signals.
  • Wear bright colors and reflective gear to help cars see you. Neon yellow spandex is very flattering and in this season.
  • Add lights to your bike seat post and handlebar. In fact, in the state of WA during the hours of darkness, a white front light (not a reflector) that is visible for 500 feet and a red reflector on the rear are required (RCW 46.61.780).
  • Look out for road debris and rainbow patches on the road, which could indicate oil or slick spots.
  • Never go so fast that you can't stop.
  • Walk your bike across busy intersections by using the push button to activate the pedestrian signal.
  • Always ride with traffic - as close as possible to the right side of the road.

For more traffic safety tips, see kenmorewa.gov/TargetZero.

Rainy Weather Traffic Safety