WASHINGTON, D.C. (WUSA) - With Hurricane Sandy expected to make landfall in Maryland early on Tuesday, AAA advises motorists to be aware of driving hazards, including traffic signals going dark and service stations shutting down due to loss of electrical power.
Motorists are advised to fill gas tanks but should avoid 'panic buying, which could prompt a run on gas, according to AAA. A spokesman said residents should be aware that AAA emergency roadside assistance crews will not be able to deliver emergency supplies of fuel if gas stations lose power.
AAA offers the following tips for driving during wet weather:
* Reduce speed significantly. Speed limits are set for ideal road conditions. When it rains, visibility is reduced and speeds should decrease.
* Turn on windshield wipers as soon as rain begins to fall. If intermittent wipers are used, be certain they are set to a speed that will clear the windshield before visibility is compromised.
* Use low-beam headlights to help other drivers see your car and increase visibility. If the wipers are on, lights should be on. It's the law.
• Never drive into any flooded area, especially if the water is moving quickly. If you are approaching a flooded roadway, turn around and take an alternate route. High water in streets and intersections will quickly stall motor vehicles. Your car is buoyant. It will tend to float and rise up as waters rise. Most trucks, four-wheel drives and SUV's are especially susceptible to being swept away by high water.
AAA also offers the storm preparedness tips:
• Check your insurance policy. Standard home insurance policies do not have flood coverage. This is true of many commercial property insurance policies as well. A separate flood policy is needed to have flood coverage.
• Remove large trees and branches that may fall on your house.
• Install permanent storm shutters or have 5/8" marine plywood pre-cut and ready to board up windows.
• Keep gutters and downspouts debris-free and reinforce your garage door.
• Be prepared to move large items like lawn furniture or garbage cans indoors.
• Keep a battery-powered radio for access to emergency management information.
• Know your community's evacuation routes.