Every driver could use some tips for driving in severe weather. No matter how experienced you are as a driver, there’s this dread you feel when you have to go out and the weather is terrible. You might panic, and if you’re a beginner at driving, you might have no idea what to do to ensure your safety and that of others on the road. Rather than leave it up to chance, it’s best to get expert advice on navigating the road in severe weather.
This article will provide some essential tips for safe driving in severe weather. We will also discuss how a car accident lawyer can help you in accident cases. So, read till the end if you want to learn about these things.
What Should Drivers do When Driving in Severe Weather?
According to the National Weather Service, severe weather typically entails when it’s raining, snowing, or if there’s a lot of fog that hinders visibility. Regardless of which direction you might be facing, it’s always a good idea to plan by checking the road condition of the route you might be taking.
Also, always have an emergency tool kit in your car and stock up on all the necessary items, like an extra power bank. This article contains helpful driving tips for rain, fog, and snow.
Tips for Driving in Severe Weather
Sadly, heavy downpours are linked to higher road accident rates, which is no surprise, as it can be pretty tricky to drive when it rains. Even if you tell yourself that you’ll avoid driving in the rain, you can’t run away from it for very long, and it’s best to face your fears head-on. Knowing the best way to drive in this severe weather will save you great trouble.
Wait if you can: If you’re home when the rain starts, you can wait it out till the rain subsides or postpone your plans, especially if it’s not necessary.
Ensure your car is in good condition: Inspect your car’s parts, including the tail and headlights, wipers, tire tread, and battery. Make sure all of these are in working order before you head out. Failure to do this can leave you stranded or, worse, get you in an accident.
Adhere to the required speed limit: It’s best to drive slower in severe weather, especially when it’s raining because the road can be dangerous. Plus, it’s irresponsible to go above the speed limit, even if you think it’s a lonely road.
Turn your headlights on: The rain can impair visibility on the road. Turning on your headlights can make it easier to see where you’re headed. It’s also a signal to other drivers that there’s another car on the road.
Use Your Windshield Wipers: You may already know this, but it’s essential to mention it again. It may seem unbelievable, but some people forget to do it, as necessary as it may seem.
Keep a respectable distance between cars:Â The greater the distance between you and the car in front of you, the better.
No heavy braking or sudden turning: It’ll be harder for you to slow down when it’s raining, so it’s always a good idea to take your foot off the accelerator seconds earlier than you would on a regular day. Hydroplaning can make you lose traction in your car, so never switch lanes too suddenly.
Ventilate your car: With rain, there’ll be excess humidity that can cause fogginess in your car. Please turn on the vent system to prevent it from happening.
Safe Driving Tips for Fog
Dense fog can be scary since you can barely see what’s on the road. Here are some tips that’ll help you drive safely:
Always keep your headlights on: It’s not negotiable. Make sure your headlights are always on, as it’ll help you see better. However, avoid high beams because they can cause glares that cause more visibility problems.
Know when to stop: If you’re deep in the fog and feel like stopping, don’t. There might be cars behind you, and you can imagine the disaster that could result. If you must stop, find a public place to park instead of stopping by the roadside.
Reduce your speed: Because of the fog, seeing objects in front of you can be much more challenging, so it’s best to lower your speed.
Reduce distractions: Your attention should always be on the road with 100% focus. Only pick up calls or eat as you drive. Turn off the music and ensure there’s no noise while you go.
Turn on your windshield wiper and defroster it:Â Â The fog can cause moisture to build upon the windshield, which makes it harder to see. A defroster can help reduce condensation, and the wipers will help you see better.
Safe Driving Tips for Snow and Ice
Driving in the snow differs from rain, fog, and other severe weather conditions. If you have snow on your car, take time to get it all off before moving. Here are some tips to help you drive safely when it’s snowing.
De-ice your windscreen and lock: Your windscreen must be as clear as day to see what’s in front of you. Locks aren’t immune to the cold and can get frozen, locking you out of your car. Using a deicer can help unfreeze it.
Check your car thoroughly: The wipers, tires, and lights are essential car parts you must check. Your wipers should be in good condition so you can clear snow off your windscreen. Your tires should be in good condition as well. Check the tread—the deeper the tread, the better.
Use good screen wash: Low-quality screen wash can cause your wipers to freeze. Invest in a better-quality screen wash that’s appropriate for extreme weather conditions.
Leave enough room between your car and others: Enough space between your car and the next reduces the risk of a collision. Please don’t use the brakes unless it’s necessary.
Use dipped headlights: Dipped headlights are better than daytime lights, especially when it’s snowing. If it’s harder to see, turn on the fog lights. The glare from the sun can also add to your visibility problems. Using sunglasses can help you see better.
Coleman Law Group can Help You
Sadly, driving in severe weather conditions can increase your chances of getting into an accident. However, the good news is that you can get adequate compensation for your damages in the accident with the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer or a car accident lawyer.
The even better news is that Coleman Law Group is qualified and dedicated to helping you get the most out of your settlement case.
