Oklahoma has been under storm clouds all week. While some drivers are taking their precautions on the road, all drivers should remember that visibility is essential, both legally and for their own safety.
Oklahoma statutes are clear about driving in the rain and what drivers need to do to increase their own safety and the safety of other drivers on the road.
Here are the local laws governing driving in inclement weather.
Is it illegal to drive in the rain without your headlights?
In Oklahoma, all drivers are required to have their two headlights and two taillights turned on during all weather events.
The statute, in Title 47, reads that all “front fog lamp” and “rear fog lamp” lights are to be on during “rain, snow, fog, dust or other atmospheric disturbances.”
Pushmataha County Sheriff’s Office goes further to say that “drivers are mandated to activate their headlights when utilizing windshield wipers,” in a recent Facebook post.
How to turn on headlights?
Turning on your headlights depends on the car you have. Some models have a switch on the steering wheel that allows you to change them, while others may have a switch on the dashboard to turn them on.
To learn how to turn on your car’s lights, refer to your vehicle’s manual.
Safety while driving in the rain
AAA notes that 1.2 million traffic crashes happen a year because of wet pavement.
They recommend the first thing you do to ensure your safety starts before you drive.
“Replace windshield wiper inserts that leave streaks or don’t clear the glass in a single swipe. Make sure all headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are properly functioning so other drivers will see you during downpours. Turn on your headlights whenever you drive,” AAA writes.
The organization advised drivers to also avoid using cruise control, slow down while driving, and leave sufficient room between other vehicles.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Is it illegal to drive without headlights in the rain? See Oklahoma law
