Last month, we braced ourselves as tropical Storm Ophelia made landfall. Most of us sought shelter against its high winds and heavy rains as alarms on phones and televisions sounded day and night, warning of flash and urban floodings from Virginia to New Jersey.

More than 50,000 customers in several states lost power with downed trees and powerlines, creating deadly hazards in desperate need of repair.  

Travelers were left stranded, unable to make it home or to safety due to the storm surge that flooded roadways throughout the Mid-Atlantic.

Luckily, no fatalities were attributed to this storm, which served as a “thank goodness” bullet we dodged as we know Mother Nature carries deadly forces.

Although a good dousing may be great for trees and wildlife, it presents an extra level of hazard for those of us driving down freeways and city streets.

Some refuse to drive in the rain.  They feel uncomfortable on the road during a storm and will reschedule plans to avoid being out if the forecast looks grim.   Still, others brave the storms with reckless abandon, sure their driving skills and sturdy vehicles will see them to the other end of rain-drenched roads and flooded streets.

Stormy weather brings challenges for even the most seasoned drivers. For some, driving through storms is unavoidable.  A commercial driver can’t simply stop for the day because of a rainstorm.  They’d lose that day’s pay at best and, at worst, be suspended or fired for failing to get their shipment to its destination on time.   The same holds for most hard-working Americans.  If there’s a bad storm during your commute to work, you must drive through or risk being late, and face being written up or worse.

So, for all who choose to brave the rain, here are some wet weather driving tips that will help increase the odds of you reaching your destination safely, if not a little damp:

  1. If you’re on the road and a sudden burst of heavy rain shows up, consider pulling over until it eases up a bit. Often, storms come in waves, and waiting for a lull in the rain will help you navigate with better visibility.
  2. Turn your lights on. If you must drive through a rainstorm, turn your lights on.  Headlights help improve your visibility and help other drivers see you as well.  A good rule of thumb is if your windshield wipers need to be on, your lights need to be on as well.
  3. Reduce your speed. This one should be a no-brainer.  You have lower visibility and less chance to react on slick roads. Slow down.  Getting to your destination at ten miles under the speed limit is better than not getting there at all.
  4. Don’t tailgate. Again, this one seems obvious. If you’re driving in the rain, stay far away from the vehicles in front of you.  This increases your reaction time if something happens and the driver in front of you loses control or must suddenly stop.
  5. Don’t Risk it! If you see standing water on the road, don’t risk driving through.  Flood waters can look deceptively shallow, and drivers often don’t realize the road is impassable until it’s too late.  Every time you chance driving through flood waters, you risk destroying your engine at least and risking your life if the water is too deep or your vehicle is swept away.
  6. Stay away from buses and big trucks. It’s harder for oversized vehicles to stop, and they have many more blind spots than you do. You don’t want to be anywhere near one of them if they lose control on the road.  Give them room.  Lots of room.
  7. Watch for pedestrians, bike riders, and motorcyclists. These unfortunate souls trapped in a rainstorm are likely already soaking wet and miserable.  Often, they are in a rush with their heads down, trying to find a place to get out of the rain.  Remember that they may not be paying attention to their surroundings as well as they should. Give them room.  A lot of room.
  8. Stay in the middle lane. Not too fast. Not too slow, but just right.  The center lane of a freeway is often the safest place to drive, especially during rainstorms.  Speeds are steadier and more predictable, and you are less likely to encounter pooling road water.
  9. Lastly, don’t drive. Staying off the road is the best way to avoid a wreck during bad weather.  If you know the weather is bad and you can change your plans, change them.  A thunderstorm experienced from the safety of your home is a lot more enjoyable than on a freeway full of semi-trucks, slick roads, and limited visibility.

Well, that’s all for now.  So be safe out there, and if you ever need the services of an experienced personal injury attorney, I’m here for you. Call me at 703-761-4343 (Virginia) or 301-949-1515 (Maryland). I’m here to help in every way I can.

Until next time, please be safe, and NEVER text while driving!

Paul Samakow

Attorney Paul Samakow

703-761-4343 or 301-949-1515.

WordPress Video Lightbox Plugin
GLORIA CARDENAS
GLORIA CARDENAS
1745251615
I been a customer for a car accident with mr Paul Samako for more than 20 years, Mr Samako is very good lawyer, fight for my right and get the compensation I deserved for my car accident wasn't my fault..so I give the 5 stars ,to the whole group, who was working to get the maximum on the case..winning the case at my favor, for all and more.Thank you so much.Mr Paul Samako to be there when I needed.GOOD BLESSING YOU 🙏
Albie B
Albie B
1744728253
Angel Manzanares
Angel Manzanares
1744379855
Wow I was super impressed on how EvelynKept me informed throughout the whole process and answered any questions that I had right away I highly recommend this law firm they work very efficient and always organized making sure that they are following up with their clients and always looking out for the clients best interest.
Henry Luna
Henry Luna
1744299977
no name no last name
no name no last name
1744237718
Very knowledgeable would use again and again
Jannea Ruff
Jannea Ruff
1743189131
They handle cases with integrity and dedication. They truly care about their clients
Axel Nyembwe
Axel Nyembwe
1741279309
First class law office . Dealing with a car accident at times becomes tedious. I’ve never dealt with a car accident ever before. I felt fully prepared and knowledgeable throughout, the whole process of my case. They never sold me a dream and they also actually over achieved . The most import thing to me as a client was communication. From the concierge. To the paralegal shoutout Justin. To the attorney on my case. I just wanna say thank you for everything. Going with this law firm was one of the best decisions. I could have made. 5starsssssssssss
MANUEL Guzmán
MANUEL Guzmán
1740763152
Excelentes profesionales
Erik Anderson
Erik Anderson
1740588412
Flawless. Paul Samakow and his team walk you through the steps from start to finish, managing expectations. They keep you informed with updates in real time, and execute the plan as discussed. Absolutely flawless.
Justin Marshall
Justin Marshall
1739291227
They really helped after my accident. They are very professional and answer all your questions honestly and very informative. I definitely recommend you taking your case to them.
Alex Saveljev
Alex Saveljev
1738166717
Outstanding job and always keep me posted what goin on from beginning to the end keep up an amazing job definitely recommend to see him
David Cho
David Cho
1737331991
I recently worked with Paul Samakow and Rocco on a personal injury case, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. Both Paul and Rocco were incredibly friendly, professional, and easy to communicate with. They took the time to understand my needs and kept me very well updated throughout the entire process. They were always willing to go above and beyond to meet my expectations. Even when challenges arose, they remained flexible and open to compromise, ensuring my priorities were always respected.I highly recommend Paul Samakow and Rocco Turzi
Roberto Pereira
Roberto Pereira
1732189180
Avi Santizo
Avi Santizo
1731626924
Muy agradecidos, con la ayuda de la señorita Evelyn Amaya en la oficina de Manassas. Una excelente persona y con un carisma que da gusto hablar con ella le explica a uno de buena manera los detalles. Le doy mas de 10 estrellas a la señorita Evelyn Amaya y la oficina de Paul Samakow
Luis Amaya
Luis Amaya
1730816243
Great to work with Evelyn Amaya was the Best!! Thank you All i am happy
Jisela Guillen
Jisela Guillen
1729888411
Mercedes Henriquez
Mercedes Henriquez
1729796521
Todo bien solo que se tomo tiempo. Estoy agradecida con el abogado.
Edgar112orellana@gmail.com Edgar
Edgar112orellana@gmail.com Edgar
1727874325
Evelyn and Rocco were incredible. Rocco did his best to get me the most for my case and Evelyn walked me through the hardships and what to expect. Now Paul! I love honesty and straight fordwardness... if that's a word. Paul was great, his team made me feel safe and showed me what to expect. Thank you all for what you did. From my family to yours.
Ryan Campbell
Ryan Campbell
1727627276
I first got injured ( burned in a sensitive area) and I didn't know what to Expect or what to to next. I found Mr samakow and his group online, read.some reviews and gave them a call. Mr samakow took my call and we began the process of gathering details.Throughout this case I was anything but easy to work with - I was frustrated and upset with the insurance company often.Life was happening too fast around me to begin with, and this is without considering the stress from the case itself.However, through all of this chaos and confusion, Mr samakow remained calm, and for the most part found a way to accommodate me at every turn the case took. He was honest about his intentions, and always transparent. My case settled in roughly 15 months!Thanks to paul, and the samakow law group for your patience and professionalism!I'd use again, and I highly recommend. 👌Best regards,Ryan s.
Juan Benavides
Juan Benavides
1727256055
I got in a motor accident in the beginning of the year. had the pleasure of working with the Law offices of paul A. Samakow, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel welcome and at ease.A special shoutout to Paralegal Evelyn, who was incredibly knowledgeable and attentive throughout the entire process. She took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all my questions promptly, and truly went above and beyond to ensure I felt supported. Her professionalism and compassion made a challenging situation much more manageable.The attorneys at the firm are equally impressive, demonstrating expertise and dedication to their clients. I felt confident in their hands, and they delivered outstanding results.Thank you Evelyn, and the entire team, for your exceptional service!
T Marie Hayes
T Marie Hayes
1727214092
Ludvin Mendez
Ludvin Mendez
1726865286
Excelente abogado muy recomendable trabajo 100% garantizado
Alyncia Proctor
Alyncia Proctor
1726604291
Taina Hoyt
Taina Hoyt
1725823144
Melissa is amazing professional employee I will always come back to get services from this firm
Ashley Ruiz
Ashley Ruiz
1725621882
I had an accident by the beginning of the year, and we contacted them to represent me, they were amazing, process took less then a year, and it was super fast, Evelyn was so helpful and amazing.
Edwin Perdomo
Edwin Perdomo
1725391550
What a great law firm Mrs. Evelyn Amaya kept me notified and up to date on everything and ensured me her and her team had my back and no matter how frustrated I was they spoke with respect and dignity to me which I admire, they really know there stuff, thank you again
Joe Musso
Joe Musso
1725380434
I've been a nursing home abuse attorney for 25 years. In Virginia the legislature codified understaffing cases for attorneys like me in direct response to the case of Alcoy v. Woodbine which Paul Samakow litigated and won! In short, nursing home residents in Virginia are more protected because of Paul Samakow. Having now gotten to know him better I am moved by how caring and compassionate he is. An attorney that is brilliant and capable coupled with a loving passion for his clients is a dangerous combination. If you are considering hiring an attorney, Paul Samakow will not let you down.
Hemanta Shrestha
Hemanta Shrestha
1725377389
I was thankful for the experience with this firm, Filly came in and assisted me with my case and i appreciated it that he was always a phone call away . Thank you so much Paul and. Filly for your friendly, impressive and fastest service and co-operation. Definitely I Will recommend to friends
M DLC
M DLC
1725374258
Recomiendo a Melissa porque es una persona muy profesional dedicada inteligente amigable y muy responsable en lo que hace.Porque ganan todos los casos
Rosa Machado
Rosa Machado
1724776619
Tuve un accidente hace 5 meses atrás y fue un bendición que dios nos dio que encontré esta firma de abogados. Son muy profesionales y muy eficaces en el trabajo que hacen. Muy satisfechas y los recomiendo 100%. Muchas gracias a Melissa Rodríguez y a su firma de abogados paul samakow a quien nos ayudó en este caso.
Josephine Agyeman
Josephine Agyeman
1722280441
Melissa Rodriguez was very nice to me.She did an excellent job
Gary Njr
Gary Njr
1721150823
Love!!! They help me so much and stress free!!!! Eve help answer all my questions without hesitation. Would recommend 100%
deniz Yilmaz
deniz Yilmaz
1720732198
Mr. Samaria helped me with my case. He is a people’s person and very attentive. His office staff was very helpful as well. Thank you Mr.Samakow
Candice Wright
Candice Wright
1718329991
Paul is excellent I trust him with my life. He took on my case not even being in his own state, he had to get a special license to practice in my state just for my case. He took very good care of me and I was a pain in the butt! He assured me that I've made the right choices. He educated me on a lot of things, step by step process. The thing that got me the most was he goes above and beyond professionalism. He keeps you well informed. He's an excellent lawyer ! I can say that he did my case Justice and you'd be a fool not to hire him . Paul will have your best interest first and foremost I can tell you that is fact!
Andreina Sorto
Andreina Sorto
1717639258
I had a great experience with this law firm. They helped me in so many ways and made sure everything was taken care of. Eve is the best paralegal i’ve had and she always ensured i knew what i was going on with my case. I highly recommend this firm to anyone who has gotten into an accident and needs guidance.
Noelia Ortiz
Noelia Ortiz
1717534476
Melissa is a great person she did a wonderful job. I will forever be grateful.
Joana Juarez
Joana Juarez
1717104472
I have always cane back to them if I need them for any accident. This office I highly recommend.
Christian Marable
Christian Marable
1716506766
Eve was very helpful throughout my case, I would definitely recommend having her help you!
Mauricio Valeriano
Mauricio Valeriano
1712875456
Excelente atención.
Genesis Cleaningco
Genesis Cleaningco
1705097681
My name is Lorenzo Ventura I am very happy with the services I received from the law firm I take my case to another law firm they say my case was to small then I call Mr Paul the answer was yes will take your case thanks for everything
Hatti Chase
Hatti Chase
1702491619
It was a very long process. Having patience for the due justice was the hardest part. All the staff was always very friendly, respectful, and informative of the process. I appreciated the short videos to explain the process and birthday well wishes. I have never been through anything like this. So this hopefully is my first and last. To only receive a mere small amount in the range of $2,600 the other $3,000+ came from my job. So that was hurtful, because someone there or at the insurance company spoke on my behalf saying they did not think my injury ..."a ripped ligament in my knee" was caused by the car crash, and it was degeneration. That was not true. Even the doctor told told me, showed me, and gave me a video of my knee along with documentation for the results of my knee injury. You have it as well. It can never be repaired properly, it is a permanent injury. It will get worse over time. That part was hurtful. Thank you ALL anyway for what you have achieved on my behalf. And may your company have much more success for others. Have a wonderful holiday. Sincerely Mrs. Chase❤🎀🎉🎊
More reviews
×
js_loader