Hazardous Road Conditions
Hazardous road conditions are often related to heavy rain, snow and ice. However windy conditions are also another important factor motorists should be aware of.
Strong winds can cause many conditions and knowing how to drive in these conditions will ensure you are as safe as possible on the roads. Whether you’re driving on open roads or through villages, been able to know how to handle your vehicle in the windy weather is essential.
When it comes to motorcyclists they need to take extreme caution in strong winds as the vehicle will be much harder to control.
Therefore, if you are about to take a journey during high winds or poor weather conditions always do the following:
Weather Updates
Checking the weather in advance of travelling is always a good idea. When routes are particularly hazardous or accidents have occurred, you can plan to take an alternative route or delay your journey until the weatherhas improved.
Another good tip is to ensure that traffic updates are enabled on your radio, this will keep you informed of any road closures on your journey ahead. This will enable you to be able to take an alternative route to your destination.
Be prepared
Challenging weather conditions can cause major disruptions and delays. Therefore if you plan to drive in hazardous conditions, it is advisable that you prepare in advance. Travelling with water, snacks, warm clothing and a blanket in case you find yourself stuck for a long period of time. Always ensure your mobile phone is fully charged prior to the journey in case you need to contact someone.
Slow driving
Common sense is to drive slower in challenging road conditions, keeping both yourself and other motorists around you safe. This also will give you more time to react in bad weather conditions such as slippy roads and with sudden gusts of wind. During windy conditions in particular, ensure you keep a strong, firm hold on the steering wheel, is important to maintain control at all times. With crosswinds they can suddenly push your car, therefore it is essential to be prepared so you can stabilise the car in the event of this happening.
Keep centred in your lane
Another good tip is to drive in the centre of your lane to allow leeway on either side of your vehicle, in the event a gust of wind pushes you to the side. If you drive too close to the road edge it could cause you to lose control, if you were to be suddenly pushed further aside. Driving too close to the centre lines could also cause an accident with another driver.
Take precaution when overtaking
If you have to overtake or drive close to a bus or lorry, it is worth noting that these larger vehicles can cause a wind tunnel effect which enhances the wind for smaller vehicles near them. When overtaking larger vehicles be prepared for sudden changes in wind patterns.
Keeping your distance
Always keep a longer following distance between you and the car in front, in-turn this will give you more time to react in an incident. It also allows you to observe the cars ahead to and notice is any are going off-course, this gives you a pre-warning as you approaching that part of the road.
Open areas
Built-up areas or roads with lots of trees helps to break the wind up so you don’t experience such strong side winds. However always be aware of possible falling trees and when driving back onto the open roads you need to be aware that the wind is likely to be stronger and more hazardous.
Hazzards
During poor weather conditions, be aware of the following which can cause accidents to occur
- Debris on the road
- Cars with roof boxes
- Vehicles towing caravans or trailers
- High exposed bridges
Taking more caution around these vehicles especially in high winds.
Always take caution and be prepared. By keeping informed about weather conditions, keeping control of your vehicle, and caring out safe driving practices, you can navigate through even the windiest of journeys.
The safety of yourself, your passengers, and other road users is very important. If you find yourself facing strong winds or poor driving conditions, please keep these tips in mind for a stress free and safe journey. Remember if you really feel unsafe in poor condiitons you can always pull over in a safe place until the conditions improve.
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