Adverse weather can create dangerous driving conditions for even the most experienced of drivers. Rain, snow and ice, fog, and wind are all weather conditions that can drastically impact your ability to stay safe on the road. When driving in these conditions, it’s important to stay alert to avoid being involved in an accident. In this post we’ll discuss common adverse weather conditions and how they can impact your ability to drive safely.
Understanding Adverse Weather Conditions
Sometimes bad weather just can’t be avoided. Sleet, snow, ice, rain, wind, and fog are all conditions that drivers may face. These conditions can impact visibility, road traction, and overall driving conditions. In adverse weather conditions, drivers may be more prone to accidents. Car accidents can be scary and sometimes fatal, so making sure you follow the necessary precautions when driving in adverse weather conditions is vital.
Preparing Your Vehicle
The best step to take before driving in any type of bad weather is to properly prepare your vehicle. Preparing your vehicle includes everything from regular maintenance to checking that windshield wipers are in good working condition. You should also ensure that your tires are the proper tread and inflation. Remember to also check your lights and make sure your brakes are in working condition.
Driving in Rain
When driving in rain, it’s important to adjust your speed and maintain a farther distance from the car in front of you. Your headlights should also be on and your windshield wipers should be used. This is why it’s important that your headlights and windshield wipers are in good working condition before hitting the road. With rain comes the chance of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning happens when tires lose their grip on the road. When tires lose their grip on the road, they instead travel on a film of water that is sitting on top of the road. Hydroplaning can be a common occurrence and it reduces the driver’s ability to brake and steer.
Maintaining proper tire pressure and keeping your vehicle at an appropriate speed can decrease your chances of hydroplaning. If your car does begin to hydroplane, remain calm and let off of the gas pedal. Gently attempt to steer in the direction you want to travel in. Once the car reaches a part of the road without standing water, you should be able to regain control of your vehicle. Hydroplaning all happens within a matter of seconds, but remaining calm is the best step to take.
Navigating Snow and Ice
When driving in snow and ice, it’s imperative that your car is equipped with winter tires or snow chains for enhanced traction. When driving on snow and ice, there are some basic steps you can take:
- Decrease speed
- Increase stopping distance between vehicles
- Keep a full tank of gas
- Wear your seatbelt
- Look out for black ice
Black ice is a thin layer of ice on the road that appears almost invisible or black, blending in with the color of the roadway. Black ice often forms on the road late at night or early in the morning when temperatures drop. Since black ice is so hard to spot, it is especially hazardous to drivers. The best advice for navigating icy conditions is to exercise caution and adjust your driving behavior accordingly.
Foggy Conditions
When navigating foggy conditions, reducing speed and increasing stopping distance is also encouraged. Properly using your fog lights is also necessary. When driving in fog, make sure to stay extra vigilant and focused.
Dealing with Windy Conditions
Sometimes overlooked, windy conditions can also be quite hazardous for drivers. When driving in windy conditions, it’s important to maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel. Try to anticipate gusts and adjust your driving behavior accordingly. Be aware of the potential for flying debris and maintain a safe driving speed.
More Helpful Tips
When driving anywhere it’s important to keep some safety tips in mind, but it’s especially imperative when driving in adverse weather conditions. Make sure you keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your car at all times. This kit should include:
- A first-aid kit
- Basic tools
- Basic vehicle supplies
- Flashlights
- Extra clothing or blankets
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable snacks
- Maps of the area
- A battery-operated radio
- Personal hygiene items
- List of emergency contacts
- Important medical information
- Extra cash
- Pen and paper
Another tip is to regularly monitor weather forecasts and plan your trip accordingly. It’s also important to know when to postpone or cancel travel plans. Your safety and the safety of others is what matters the most.
Vehicle Technology and Adverse Weather
Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing safety during adverse weather conditions. For example, Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) can prevent wheel lockup during hard braking to ensure the driver maintains steering control. In rain and snow, ABS can help prevent skidding. Another example is All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Four-Wheel Drive (4WD). AWD and 4WD improve traction and provide better control and acceleration compared to traditional two-wheel-drive vehicles. Lane-Keeping Assist (LKA) is another type of technology that is also especially helpful when driving in rough weather conditions. LKA provides steering input or alert to avoid unintentional lane departures.
These technologies are just some of the many that modern cars are equipped with these days to create a safer driving environment. As technology continues to advance, smart features will further improve driving safety, especially during challenging weather conditions.
Preparedness and Caution
When getting behind the wheel of any vehicle it’s important to be prepared and cautious. But, it’s especially vital to practice preparedness and caution when driving during hazardous weather conditions. Rain, snow and ice, fog, and wind are all common weather scenarios that drivers may face. Ensuring your vehicle is in proper working condition, keeping an emergency kit in your car, and monitoring weather reports are all essential steps to take before traveling. Remaining calm and alert is also one of the most important steps a driver can take, and can even be life saving in some instances. Safety is the number one priority, so we hope this guide helps you navigate driving in adverse weather conditions.
