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New Jersey’s Rain or snow: what’s the more dangerous condition for drivers?

On Behalf of | Jan 20, 2023 | Blog, Car Accidents

New Jersey residents know this state undergoes a wide range of weather conditions. With that in mind, it’s understandable to assume that snowy conditions would be more dangerous for drivers than rainy roads. However, a recent study reports that rainy weather seems much more dangerous for drivers than snowy roads.

The details behind this recent study

Recently, Jerry, an auto insurance comparison service, looked over crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Specifically, Jerry looked over the data to learn about weather-related accidents during winter and found that the southern states registered more snow-related severe accidents than the northern states, like New Jersey.

Why are rainy roads so dangerous?

There are a few reasons why rainy roads could be more dangerous than snowy ones. For one reason, the average driver thinks rain is less risky than snow. Unfortunately, this thinking can lead a driver to be more reckless in rainy conditions than driving on snowy roads.

Another reason that motor vehicle accidents during the rain more than the snow around New Jersey are the fact that northern states receive icy conditions frequently during winter. Rain can cause slick pavement, flooding, and reduced visibility. New Jersey drivers understand that it is necessary to equip snow chains and drive slower in the snow. However, there is no actual preparation for tires in the rain, and most drivers will not reduce their speed significantly enough. Rain can also create water pockets on the road where lower-level paving rests. This causes the potential for drivers to hydroplane over the area and lose control of the vehicle.

Whether you drive in the rain or snow, travel slower than you would in optimal weather conditions. It’s also important to avoid following other vehicles too close in dangerous weather. If possible, wait to drive until a rainstorm or snowstorm passes.

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