We’ve entered the rainy season here in Georgia. While other parts of the country are still getting snow, we’re more likely to see rain until summer. However, just because our roads aren’t icy doesn’t mean they’re any less dangerous. When the roads are wet, during or after a rainstorm, there’s a greater risk of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is when the tires of a vehicle are no longer in contact with the road due to a layer of water. Drivers can lose control of their vehicles when hydroplaning, resulting in serious accidents. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of hydroplaning by practicing these safety tips. Down Came the Rain • Take care of your tires. Always keep your tires properly inflated. If your tire tread is wearing low, replace your tires immediately. • Choose your lane carefully. If possible, don’t drive in the outer lanes where water accumulates. Carefully avoid puddles and drive in the tire tracks left behind by the car in front of you • Drive safely! Hydroplaning usually happens at speeds over 35 mph. If the roads are wet, give yourself extra time on your commute to drive slower. Keep in mind that hydroplaning can also happen at lower speeds, so be sure to drive in a lower gear, take your car off cruise control, and avoid hard braking or sharp turns. How to Avoid Hydroplaning
HOW SAFE DRIVERS AVOID HYDROPLANING
What to Do if Your Car Hydroplanes Even cautious drivers can find themselves hydroplaning when the roads are slick. When this happens, it’s important not to panic. Here’s what you need to do to recover from hydroplaning: 1. Take your foot off the accelerator to slow down. Do not hit the brake! Braking suddenly can cause your car to skid completely out of control. 2. Turn your steering wheel into the direction your car is hydroplaning. This may seem counterintuitive, but turning into the skid realigns your tires and helps you regain control of your vehicle. 3. Wait until your tires reconnect with the road. This change will be obvious and signal that you’ve stopped hydroplaning. 4. If you need to recover, find a safe place to pull off the road. Hydroplaning can be terrifying. It’s okay if you need to take a few minutes. It doesn’t take much rain to cause hydroplaning. Even a thin layer of water can cause drivers to lose control. When the rain starts to fall, remember to practice extra caution if you’ll be out on the road.
DATE TRUFFLES
THE CHAMPION POP QUIZ
Ingredients
Inspired by The Minimalist Baker
• 1 lb medjool dates, pitted (about 1 1/2 cups) • 1/2 tsp sea salt • Warm water
• 1/4 cup peanut butter • 1 cup bittersweet or dark chocolate, chopped • 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
Classic Date Night Package
Directions
The Champion Firm wants to help sparks fly during your next date night. That’s why we’re giving away a $50 dinner and a movie gift card from Fandango! To win, just answer this Valentine’s Day-themed trivia question: What’s the most popular flower to give on Valentine’s Day?
1. Using a food processor, blend dates and sea salt until dough can be formed into a ball. Slowly add enough warm water to mixture to thicken dough. 2. Roll dough into tablespoon-sized balls. Freeze for 20–30 minutes. 3. In microwave, warm 1/4 cup peanut butter for 30 seconds, then drizzle peanut butter on top of balls. Freeze balls for another 20 minutes. 4. Meanwhile, in microwave, warm chocolate with coconut oil until melted. Stir well. 5. Coat balls in chocolate and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 6. Top with additional salt and freeze for 30 minutes. Serve at room temperature.
Email your answer to tamsie@thechampionfirm.com for a chance to win. Submissions must be received by Saturday, Feb. 29, to qualify. Congratulations to our December trivia champion, Marcia L. , who won tickets to see “The Nutcracker”!
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Published by The Newsletter Pro | www.TheNewsletterPro.com
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