The weather is one force of nature over which we have no control. If you get stuck on the roads when severe weather rolls through, you will need to know how to keep yourself and your vehicle safe.
Whether you believe in global warming or not, the simple fact is that stormy weather is increasing across the globe. This makes learning life-saving techniques for driving in severe weather a priority for all vehicle owners.
It is estimated that more than 60% of car accidents across the country are caused by bad weather. Before you need to call a car accident lawyer, take some time to learn how to drive safely when it is stormy. Let’s take a look at a few tips for driving safely in severe weather.
Ice & Snow
Slow Down
- If the temperatures drop below zero, there is a possibility of black ice forming on the roads. Bridges and overpasses will freeze before normal roads. It’s a good idea to reduce your speed when the roads are wet.
- Snowy roads don’t provide enough traction to stop quickly, so it’s important to approach road stops at slower speeds.
Clean Off Windows
- When your car is covered in snow, it will affect your visibility. You need to keep a car snow brush in your car and clean off all your windows before hitting the road.
Leave More Room
- It can be difficult to stop quickly in snowy road conditions, so leaving at least 4-5 car lengths between you and other vehicles is a good idea.
Rain
Wipers
- Always use your wipers when driving in the rain
- Make sure that your wipers are in good condition
Headlights
- Many states have made it the law to turn your headlights on when driving in the rain, even during the day, to increase your visibility on the road and to other drivers.
High Winds
Be Alert
- Flying debris is one of the biggest threats when severe winds occur, so stay alert to everything going on around your vehicle.
Both Hands On The Wheel
- High winds that hit your vehicle from the side can cause you to slip off the road or into another lane. Driving with both hands on the wheel can help you keep your vehicle more steady in high winds.
Severe Weather Events
Severe weather systems generally give a bit of warning. Tornados, hurricanes, and earthquakes can be deadly if you are out on the roads. If severe weather is heading to your area, it’s always best to stay home and take shelter. If you are stuck out on the road during an extreme weather event, try to get to some sort of shelter as soon as you can.
During an earthquake, you should stop your vehicle in an open space to help avoid debris falling from nearby buildings. If you are out during a hurricane, pull off to the side of the road where you are clear from any trees or buildings that might create debris. If your area is under a tornado watch, it’s best to stay off the roads. If you are on the streets when a tornado hits, it’s best to abandon your car and find a spot under an overpass or in a low-level ditch. The weather on our planet is changing and creating more severe storms than ever before. Follow these tips to help you stay safe on the roads during severe weather.