2007-12
PRESS RELEASE :  April 19 , 2007
FROM:   The Kansas Highway Patrol
CONTACT:   Lieutenant John A. Eichkorn (785) 296-6800
Technical Trooper Edna Buttler (785) 296-6800

April Showers Brings … Rain, Slick Roads

April showers bring May flowers. April showers also bring slick roads and potentially dangerous driving conditions. The Kansas Highway Patrol wants to remind motorists to drive safely during heavy rains and to turn on headlights in adverse conditions. Kansas law now requires drivers to turn on their headlights when windshield wipers are in continuous use as a result of rain, sleet or snow.

"It's an overall good practice to use your headlights," said Patrol Superintendent Colonel William Seck. "Using your headlights in poor conditions allows you to see the road better, and it helps other drivers see you."

The 2006 Kansas Legislature passed, and Governor Sebelius signed, 2006 House Bill 2748, which amended K.S.A. 8-1703 to require headlights to be used during daylight hours in inclement weather and when other conditions exist. According to the law, every vehicle must use headlights at all times when the following conditions exist:

• Insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions, including smoke, fog, and if persons and vehicles on the highway are not clearly discernible at a distance of 1,000 feet ahead; or
• Windshield wipers are in continuous use as a result of rain, sleet, or snow.

The Kansas Highway Patrol urges drivers to follow these driving tips during inclement weather:

• Slow down and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. A vehicle needs two to three times more stopping distance on wet pavement. The combination of oil and water on roadways make for slick travel.
• Never drive through standing water if you don’t know the water’s depth. Hitting several inches of water at high speeds may cause you to lose control.
• Change your windshield wiper blades when necessary to ensure proper operation.
• If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system, it is imperative that you understand how to use it. Read the vehicle owner’s manual or check with your dealership for more information.
• Steer toward the direction you want to go if your vehicle loses traction and begins to slide. Anticipate a second skid in the opposite direction as the vehicle straightens out.
• Refrain from using cruise control on roadways during wet and snowy conditions.
• Always wear seat belts and put children in child safety seats when appropriate.