Weather affects just about everything in every part of the country and lately rain has had a starring role in the Northeast. Record amounts of rainfall have not only put a damper (no pun intended) on vacations, but also on agriculture, construction and all other outdoor industry. It also affects the roadways, putting travelers at risk and driving safely in the rain is my topic today.

In fact, probably the greatest hazard most working folks encounter on a daily basis is traveling to and from work. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that highway accidents are responsible for the most work-related deaths each year. For some, the risk may be minimal because it's a short distance. For others, it's all day behind the windshield because it’s their job. A figurative formula might be the greater the time behind the wheel, the greater the chance of accident. And the higher the speed, the more severe the accident.

It's a safe bet that everybody reading this has taken some type of driver’s education. But how many remember when it is most hazardous to drive on wet roadways? If you said "the first few hours because of oils released from the road surface,” then you were paying attention and have a good memory. But do you recall other proven techniques that increase your chances of avoiding an accident? If not, the following is a very good article that covers everything from headlights to hydroplaning: Tips for Driving Safely in the Rain

I suggest you visit it yourself and possibly use it as a safety meeting topic for your employees.

Even though it may be warm and sunny where you are today, eventually it's going to rain. So as safety trainers like to say, "Don't focus on safety by looking in the rearview mirror (reactive), focus on safety by looking through the windshield (proactive)."