Driving in perfect weather is risky enough. You, the driver, need to be cautious of your surroundings at all times. Driving in bad weather conditions, however, is more treacherous and will require you to take more precautions.
The best thing to do when bad weather hits is to avoid going out at all and stay off the road. But if going out cannot be avoided, or you are already on the road when bad weather hits, here are things that you can do to make your trip a safer one.
Plan ahead and prepare.
Driving when the weather isn’t cooperating usually equates to longer travel time, and thus more stress. Leave early to avoid rushing, which can adversely affect your driving. It will also be helpful to check the weather before you leave. Check for alternate routes to avoid areas that are usually flooded.
It is also important to dress appropriately. You wouldn’t want to be uncomfortable during your drive.
Make sure your car is in tip-top shape.
Inspect your vehicle before your trip. Check the tires, brakes, wiper blades and headlights. Make sure everything is working fine before you brave the elements. Before the season changes, (i.e. when winter is coming), make sure to do a maintenance check.
Slow down.
Driving too fast is never safe. It becomes even more hazardous during a heavy rainfall or a snowstorm when road visibility is poor. Slower speed allows you more time to act accordingly in any road conditions. Driving at a lower speed decreases risks of skid and road accidents.
Leave more space than usual in front of you.
When driving in weather conditions that affect road visibility, leave more cushion between yourself and the car in front of you. Your brake will usually react more slowly when you are driving in the rain or snow. As such, it is necessary to give yourself more space. Having enough space gives you enough time to react accordingly and move out of harm’s way.
Buckle up and obey all road signs.
This should be done, whatever the weather condition is. Make sure that you and your passengers wear your seatbelt at all times. Road signs are put up by safety authorities for good reason.
Listen to the radio for weather updates.
Listen to a radio station that offers information on the weather and road condition updates. It can give you alternate routes in the case of road closures. However, make sure to keep the volume at a low level. You should also keep your focus on the road while you’re driving.
Pull over and find a safe place if needed.
Use your judgment and your driver’s instinct. If things look bad, they might indeed be. Find a safe place to pull over and wait for the worst of the weather to be over.
Driving in intense weather conditions can also be more tiring than a usual drive. So, pull over if you feel tired and in need of a nap. Do not risk your safety, as well as of the safety of other motorists on the road.
More Safety Tips from Your Trusted Auto Repair Company
Road safety is an important matter. You need to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid unnecessary distractions. It is also helpful for you to pack an emergency kit – flashlight, food, extra clothes, and drinking water among other things.
Ensure likewise that your mobile phone is sufficiently charged, in case you will need to make emergency calls. Remember that your safety is a personal matter and should not be taken lightly.
Written by the staff at KB Tire & Auto. KB Tire & Auto is the leading expert in auto repair Moberly MO has to offer.