| Summer Driving Tips |  |
If you do find yourself in a skid, remain calm, ease your foot off the gas, and carefully steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. For cars without anti-lock brakes, avoid using your brakes. If your car has ABS, brake firmly as you steer into the skid.
Hydroplaning happens when the water in front of your tires builds up faster than your car’s weight can push it out of the way. The water pressure causes your car to rise up and slide on a thin layer of water between your tires and the road. At this point, your car can be completely out of contact with the road, and you are in danger of skidding or drifting out of your lane, or even off the road.
Keep your tires properly inflated, maintain good tread on your tires and replace them when necessary, slow down when roads are wet, and stay away from puddles. Try to drive in the tire tracks left by the cars in front of you.
If you find yourself hydroplaning, do not brake or turn suddenly. Ease your foot off the gas until the car slows and you can feel the road again. If you need to brake, do it gently with light pumping actions. If your car has anti-lock brakes, brake normally; the car’s computer will mimic a pumping action, when necessary. (Reprinted with permission from the National Safety Council.)
What You Should do at the Scene of an Accident
• Stop your car and get help for the injured.
• If there are injuries or substantial property damage, ask someone to call the police or highway patrol.
• Provide police with the information they require. Ask the investigating officer where to obtain a copy of the police report.
• Take notes. Keep a pad and pencil in your glove compartment. Write down the following items:
- Names, addresses phone numbers of all drivers and passengers involved in the accident.
- Car license numbers, make and model of each car involved.
- Operator’s drivers license number and insurance identification number.
- Names and addresses of as many witnesses as possible.
- Names and badge numbers of police officers.
• Record the details of the accident while they are fresh in your memory. Draw a diagram to recreate the scene. We recommend that you carry a small disposal camera in your car and photograph the accident scene.
• At the moment of crisis, Brownell Insurance Center is there to assist you. We are available when you need us most. Call and ask for Cindy Donohue, our claim specialist.
If you are the passenger:
• If you are injured, get prompt medical attention.
• Collect all your belongings from the damaged car.
• Get the name, address and phone number of the driver and his/her insurance company.
• Save all medical bills and receipts.
