Stay Safe on Savannah’s Roads
Sitting on a porch during a summer storm — maybe with a margarita in hand — can be peaceful. But driving in one? Not so much. Rainy and severe weather conditions can quickly turn a routine drive into a stressful and dangerous situation, especially here in the Lowcountry, where afternoon thunderstorms often arrive fast and hit hard.
Thanks to our subtropical climate, storms are frequent and often coincide with rush hour, when roads are crowded and drivers are in a hurry. This combo increases the risk for accidents — and anxiety behind the wheel.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, wet pavement contributes to over 950,000 crashes every year, resulting in an estimated 4,700 deaths and more than 384,000 injuries. But with the right preparation and mindset, driving in rain doesn’t have to be a white-knuckled experience.
Severe Weather Driving Tips from Hollingsworth Auto
Drive Smarter – and Slower
The most important rule: slow down. Wet roads reduce traction and increase stopping distance. Avoid cruise control, stay off your phone, and keep both hands on the wheel. Be extra patient — no tailgating, and no sudden braking or swerving.
Watch Out for Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road and ride on a layer of water, causing a loss of control. It can happen with as little as 1/12 inch of water at just 35 mph.
If you hydroplane:
- Ease off the gas — don’t brake suddenly
- Steer gently in the direction you want to go
- Don’t turn the wheel sharply or overcorrect
Maintain Visibility
Turn your headlights on when it’s raining — it’s the law in Georgia
- Avoid high beams (they reflect off the rain and reduce visibility)
- Use your defrosters and fresh air AC setting to prevent window fog
- Stay back from large trucks that throw up a lot of spray
Check Your Vehicle’s Condition
Make sure your tires, brakes, wiper blades, and headlights are in good working condition before storm season hits.
- Worn tires increase the risk of hydroplaning
- Old wipers won’t clear your windshield properly
- Routine brake checks help keep stopping distances short
Avoid Standing Water
Flooding happens quickly in Savannah — especially with our low elevation.
- Just 12 inches of water can float a small car
- Two feet of moving water can sweep away most vehicles, including SUVs
- If you can’t see the road beneath the water, turn around — don’t risk it
Stay Smart. Stay Safe.
When the skies open up, remember: it’s better to arrive late than not at all. If conditions get too severe, pull over safely and wait it out. Avoid distractions, drive cautiously, and respect the power of the weather. And if your vehicle does suffer storm-related damage, the team at Hollingsworth Auto Service is here to help with expert collision repair right here in Savannah. Call Hollingsworth Auto Service at: 912.234.6651. We offer comprehensive auto body repair services to correct any dents, dings, or other damage caused by debris on the road.
