MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Heavy rainfall can cause hydroplaning dangers and ultimately create more hazards on the road.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, 75% of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on wet pavement and more than 544,700 people are injured every year in rain-related crashes. Officers comment that even two inches of water on the road can flush back up into the engine, creating even more danger.
“We’ve had patrol cars get damaged by going through water getting sucked up into the hot engine it can cause problems so be real careful of your vehicle when you’re going through large puddles when it’s raining especially hard if you have to pull over and wait for the storm to pass,” commented Marquette City Detective Nate Dawson.
Hydroplaning can still be a danger even when breaking but following 2 to 3 car lengths behind those in front can give you more cushion time to slow down, especially in the rain.