Driving in Extreme Weather Conditions – Safety Precautions and Tips

Take some simple precautions to reduce the risks of driving in extreme weather conditions. If possible, postpone trips and consider working from home or rescheduling non-urgent appointments as much as possible.

Reduce your speed in order to reduce the chance of hydroplaning or skidding, and leave an ample distance between yourself and any vehicle ahead as it will take more effort and time to brake in bad weather conditions.

Rain

Heavy rain is one of the most hazardous driving conditions, accounting for more than half of weather-related vehicle crashes each year. Reduced visibility increases hydroplaning or skidding risk. To lower these risks we advise keeping windshield wipers in good condition as well as avoiding driving during heavy downpours when standing water accumulates on roads, as well as regularly inspecting tire treads, air pressure, and brakes so they remain operational.

Foggy windows can further decrease visibility when driving in the rain, so using your car’s ventilation system to remove fog from inside your windows while driving can help significantly improve your vision. Also, keeping several car lengths between your vehicle and those ahead can facilitate easier slowing and stopping as needed; using cruise control may increase chances of distraction while making it more difficult to control when braking or accelerating.

Snow

Snow and ice present an extreme driving challenge during winter driving conditions. AAA reports that roads covered with snow, slush, or ice account for nearly half a million accidents per year as well as over two thousand road deaths – so if possible it is best to remain home when conditions are unsafe to travel on. Give yourself plenty of time for reaching your destination.

On the road, it is wise to keep your speed low and increase your following distance so you can respond more quickly to vehicles in front of you. Abrupt movements may lead to your vehicle losing traction. Be especially wary when accelerating or decelerating suddenly; be especially wary when changing lanes suddenly or when making sudden turns; make sure you check your rearview mirror before braking!

Before winter weather strikes, it is a wise idea to practice driving your car in an empty parking lot to familiarize yourself with its performance in these conditions. Additionally, make sure your battery is regularly inspected as cold temperatures can have adverse effects on its performance.

Fog

Fog can present truck drivers and other motorists with hazardous driving conditions, especially those operating commercial vehicles. Accidents often result from limited visibility and slower reaction times in fog conditions; as a result, truckers must reduce speed while taking extra safety measures to stay safe.

Use defrost as much as possible to ensure a clear windshield and mirrors, and avoid distractions while driving in fog. Be wary of potential hazards in the road if approaching an intersection; leave plenty of distance between yourself and the vehicle in front, to prevent being rear-ended by another car.

If the fog becomes too dense for safe driving, switch off your headlights and pull over in a quiet location away from traffic to wait until it dissipates. Make sure that when pulling over that your hazard lights are on so other drivers can see you.

Ice

Driving on ice can be one of the most hazardous winter conditions. Even when it seems dry, roads may still contain hidden black ice that’s virtually undetectable. Be especially wary when approaching bridges, ramps and overpasses – they tend to become slippery first – as these areas often form black ice first. Also keep an eye out for quiet roads that might also contain black ice patches.

Slow down and leave plenty of distance between yourself and other vehicles in front of you. Avoid using cruise control on ice roads. Even if your four-wheel drive helps stop faster or maintain traction faster, remember that four-wheel drive will not help stop faster or maintain it better when lost traction occurs.

Keep your car clear of snow and ice, especially the windshield, mirrors, lights, trunk and roof. This will enhance visibility as well as increase road safety for everyone on the road. If traveling during freezing temperatures alone is unavoidable, consider staying on main roads instead.

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