Driving in bad weather can be challenging and hazardous, with conditions like rain, snow, fog and ice significantly increasing the risk of accidents. To stay safe on the roads, it’s important to adopt specific driving practices tailored to these adverse conditions. Here are some tips for safe driving in bad weather.
Slow Down and Maintain a Safe Distance
One of the most important tips for driving in bad weather is to reduce your speed. Even with all the advanced safety features available with new vehicles like the Mazda, Honda and new Toyota for sale, wet or icy roads can still make your vehicle lose traction, causing you to lose control. Slowing down allows you more time to react to unexpected situations. Additionally, maintaining a greater distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you provides extra time to stop safely if the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes.
Use Your Headlights Appropriately
Proper use of headlights is necessary for visibility. In rain, snow or fog, use your low-beam headlights to improve your visibility to other drivers. High beams can reflect off precipitation and decrease your visibility, so they should be avoided. Many vehicles are equipped with fog lights, which can be particularly useful in dense fog. Keep your headlights and taillights clean and be sure they are functioning correctly before setting out in bad weather.
Avoid Sudden Movements
Sudden movements, such as sharp turns or abrupt braking, can cause your vehicle to skid or slide on slippery roads. Instead, make gradual and smooth inputs with your steering wheel, accelerator and brakes. When slowing down, start braking earlier than usual and do so gently to avoid losing control.
Use Chains or Snow Tires in Winter Conditions
In snowy or icy conditions, equip your vehicle with snow tires or tire chains for better traction. Snow tires are designed to provide improved grip on snow and ice, while tire chains can offer additional traction on particularly treacherous roads. Make sure you know how to properly install and use these devices before you need them.
Stay Calm During Skids
If your vehicle begins to skid, it’s important to stay calm and know how to respond. For a front-wheel skid, steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go. For a rear-wheel skid, steer in the direction of the skid until you regain control, then steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can worsen the skid. Instead, gently ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly.
Use Defrosters and Keep Windows Clear
Visibility is often compromised in bad weather due to foggy or icy windows. Use your vehicle’s defrosters to keep your windshield and windows clear. If your vehicle has heated mirrors, use them to improve visibility. Keep a window scraper and de-icer spray in your vehicle during the winter months to quickly clear ice and snow from your windows.
Know When to Pull Over
Sometimes, the safest option is to pull over and wait for conditions to improve. If visibility is severely reduced or the road is too slippery, find a safe place to pull over, such as a rest area or parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your presence. It’s better to arrive late than to risk an accident.
Prepare and Adapt
Safe driving in bad weather requires caution, preparation and adaptability. Remember, no journey is worth compromising your safety. Prioritize safe driving practices to keep you and your passengers safe all the way to your destination, regardless of the weather.
