Tips for driving safely in a storm

Published on February 05, 2024

We are expecting wet conditions over the next week, and the Menlo Park Police Department would like to remind you to exercise caution on the road. Visibility is low when it is raining, so it is especially important to stay attentive and follow the laws of traffic. Staying prepared and being aware of the situations you may encounter on the road is key to ensuring you will be ready for any emergency that may arise.

Here are some tips for driving safely in a storm:

• Stay informed: Check local weather updates and road conditions before getting on the road. Subscribe to the San Mateo County emergency and non-emergency alerts.
• Inspect your vehicle before leaving: Check your tires, headlights and windshield wipers before leaving.
• Turn your headlights on during rain: If your wipers are on, then your headlights should be on. Headlights must be turned on during darkness and inclement weather, which includes: rain, fog, mist and snow.
• Reduce your speed: Slow down to allow time to react to unforeseen situations. Leave early to give yourself more time to get to your destination.
• Increase vehicle distance: Increasing the distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you will allow you more time to react to any sudden change in conditions such as hydroplaning or sudden braking due to weather conditions.
• Pull over for emergency vehicles: If an emergency vehicle with its lights or sirens on is headed your way, you must get out of the way as soon as possible.
• Traffic Lights: Power outages due to weather may mean some traffic lights are out of order. If a traffic light is not functioning, it must be treated as a stop sign. Four-stop refresher: the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way and if multiple vehicles arrive at the same time then the vehicle to the right goes first.
• Turn around, don’t drown: Do not attempt to drive through flood waters, it is safer to turn around and find alternate routes. Call 9-1-1 if you are trapped by moving water.
• Be prepared: Keep a bag of emergency essentials in your vehicle, including: a flashlight, water, first aid kit and blanket. For more emergency preparedness information please visit menlopark.gov/emergency-preparedness.

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency. Let’s weather this storm safely and responsibly.