Press Release

California State Auto Assn. Announces Tips for Safe Driving in Rain and Fog

11/21/96

CSAA: Safe Driving in Rain and Fog


SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 18 -- As winter brings on rain, fog,
snow and ice, the California State Automobile Association urges
Northern California motorists to use caution.

"Winter is the most dangerous season for motorists," said CSAA
spokesperson Ron Kennedy.  "The highest number of weather-related
injuries and fatalities occur November through February."

The winter combination of overcast skies, rain and fog leads to
thousands of accidents every year.  In 1994 there were nearly 800
weather-related collision deaths and over 40,000 injuries on roads
throughout California.  Motorists can avoid many such accidents if
they observe a few bad-weather driving tips.

Wet Weather Safety Tips:

     * Slow down -- your car needs three times more space to stop on slick
     roads.  Roads become slick and dangerous after a rainfall, especially
     early in the winter season.
     * Cloudy weather reduces visibility so use extra caution when passing
     other vehicles.
     * Maintain a distance of six to eight seconds between your vehicle and
     the vehicle in front of you.
     * Be deliberate in maneuvering your vehicle -- most skidding is caused
     by sudden stops and turns.
     * If your vehicle skids, don't hit the brakes.  Ease off of the
     accelerator and steer into the direction of the skid.
     * If you drive through standing water, lightly apply the brakes to dry
     them.
     * Don't speed up when navigating through standing water.  Doing so may
     cause tires to lose contact with the road (hydroplaning).  If this
     occurs, hold the steering wheel steady and lightly apply the brakes.
     After your wheels regain contact with the road, slow down until you
     have full control of the car.
     * Be Prepared -- have tire treads, brakes and wipers checked.
     * Never drive while fatigued.  Stop every 2 hours or 100 miles and
     take a brief rest.
     * If you are having car trouble, turn on your hazard lights and pull
     off the road as far as possible to the right.  Light flares or signal
     for help and stay in your car unless your car is in danger of getting
     hit by other vehicles.  Carry a cellular phone in order to summon help
     if you become stranded.

From November through February, dense fog often plagues Northern
California, especially through the Central Valley.  Visibility in tule
fog can deteriorate at any moment to as little as 1/8 mile (660 feet)
or less.  This rapid loss of visibility creates a serious road hazard.

Fog Safety Tips:

     * Drive with lights on low beam
     * Reduce speed
     * Avoid crossing traffic unless absolutely necessary
     * Listen for traffic you cannot see
     * Use wipers and defroster as necessary for maximum vision
     * Be patient!  Don't pass lines of traffic
     * Unless absolutely necessary, don't stop on any freeway or other
     heavily traveled road
     * Consider postponing your trip until the fog clears

Before leaving home, commuters can find the latest weather updates
from any of several different phone numbers:

     * Road Info: 800-427-7623
     * CSAA Emergency Road Service: 800-AAA HELP (222-4357)
     * CSAA Ski Line. 415-864-6440

CSAA is the AAA-affiliated auto club providing motoring consumer
services to more than 3.6 million members throughout northern and
central California, Utah and Nevada..