CHARLOTTE, N.C. — We saw heavy rain in the Charlotte area on Tuesday and we expect to see more rain Wednesday. When it comes to driving it can be pretty difficult. The poor visibility and wet conditions can slow traffic. So we wanted to look at some rules in North and South Carolina when driving in these conditions.
OUR SOURCES:
- Jen Goodwin, Communication Officer for NCDOT
- Tiffany Wright, Director of Public Affairs for AAA Carolinas
- North Carolina Law
- South Carolina Law
THE QUESTION:
Do you have to have your headlights on when using your windshield wipers in North and South Carolina?
THE ANSWER:
Yes, you have to have your headlights on when using your windshield wipers in North and South Carolina.
WHAT WE FOUND:
According to both North and South Carolina law drivers are required to turn on their headlights while operating windshield wipers in bad weather.
"Anytime we're talking about implementing weather, anytime your view is going to be obstructed," Wright said. "We're talking about fog, we're talking about any time there's a there's snow, there's rain, there's sleet-- anytime that you're using windshield wipers you have to have your headlights on. Yes. It's the law."
When driving in this type of weather, Wright said keep your low beams on because high beams can blind someone coming toward you.
THE QUESTION:
Is it illegal to drive with your hazards on when it rains?
THE ANSWER:
No, it is not illegal to drive with your hazards on when it rains. However, it's not recommended.
WHAT WE FOUND:
According to AAA in about half of U.S. States, it's illegal to drive anywhere with your hazards on. However, that's not the case in the Carolinas. However, both Clark and Goodwin said it's not the safest option.
"Hazards during inclement weather can really distract other motorists. It can be a hazard for other motorists on the roadway. So it's not recommended that you use them," Wright said.
“I can see that it can make you look more visible when you see someone driving without their lights on versus having hazard lights on. But think if you can just leave them off the drive at a slower speed,” Goodwin said.
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