It is a rather unfortunate thing that the sky is not always clear and the wind is not always calm and the extreme forces of nature leave our roads and paths only for cars and those who drive cars. Instead, nature is fickle and acts haphazardly, often unprovoked, in the violence it brings, without caring when or where, and we are left to deal with this attitude even if it does not find us safe in our homes. Often the forces of nature find us in our cars driving to and from our little dots completely unaware of what is about to be unleashed. Driving in ideal weather is a simple task; Follow the rules and stay alert, but when nature’s fury rises, different strategies are required.
The elements of rain, fog, and wind are among the most dangerous in nature’s wrath and, if not handled carefully, cause crashes that take a devastating toll on both car and driver. Extra care and attention are the tools drivers need to combat these problems. Beating nature may be impossible, but surviving is a matter of caution.
THE RAIN IS NOT LIMITED TO THE PLAINS IN SPAIN
It’s an easy thing to say; “Don’t drive in the rain if you don’t have to”, but when you have to, this advice is useless. If you must go out into that rain storm, consider your safety and the safety of those who share the roads. Your duty doesn’t end when you turn on the windshield wipers.
During rain your visibility will be reduced, if not dramatically, enough to make conditions dangerous. Driving with your headlights on, even in the slightest drizzle, will make your car noticeable to other drivers and make the road noticeable to you.
Reduce your speed while driving in the rain. Just because the speed limit is a certain number doesn’t mean you should, above all, hit that number. Speed limits are really a guideline, a recommended speed that will keep traffic moving at a safe, smooth flow. During a rain, the roads will be more dangerous, so it is important to drive at a safe speed, even if it does not match the numbers on the sign. This is especially vital if rain follows a dry period. Oil and grease collected from cars will make roads slippery and make it difficult for tires to get enough traction. This can result in your car going off the road and hydroplaning. Hydroplaning will cause the car to drift until the tires can regain traction. If this happens, it is not advisable to hit the brakes. Keep the steering wheel straight and slow down until you regain control.
If you find yourself in heavy rain, pull over to the side of the road a safe distance away and wait. It’s never a good idea to speed through a puddle, as the water can seriously damage your car’s engine and can even get you stuck. Use your common sense when driving in the rain and stay alert. This will be a valuable asset as you travel down the road and through life.
DRIVING IN FOG WEATHER
Driving in fog is an especially dangerous task as visibility can be non-existent. Though when this happens, it’s wise to stop and wait rather than risk your life and the lives of others in an accident that could have been prevented. However, if you find yourself surrounded by fog and with no choice but to continue driving, drive carefully and slowly.
Use the equipment at your disposal, particularly your lights. Never use high beams in fog as the light will scatter in the fog and become useless. Your low beams are best paired with any fog lights you may have. Many times, other drivers will not be able to see your car until they are passing you, so your lights will let them know where you are.
Keep your speed slow and steady. Don’t brake suddenly and certainly don’t back up. Signal ahead of time and brake slowly so those behind you have time to react accordingly.
Concentration and focus are great allies when driving in fog. You can’t be distracted by cell phones, music, or anything else while navigating through the quagmire. Most accidents that occur in fog are fatal. Fog can come on suddenly or slowly, so keep an eye on your surroundings and any changes in weather or traffic as these can be an indicator of fog ahead.
I LISTEN TO THE WIND THROUGH THE TREES SO BE CAREFUL DRIVING
Wind can create some pretty dangerous driving conditions. Strong winds are often accompanied by other dangerous weather, so the risks created by the winds can be overshadowed by rain or snow. Larger vehicles, such as trucks and RVs, have a harder time in high winds, as their larger size is more exposed to the effects of shock. However, small cars and light vehicles will also need to take precautions.
Strong winds can kick in at any time, so it can be hard to judge when the next gust will arrive, but if you’re already in extreme wind conditions, drive at reduced speeds. Be especially careful of larger vehicles on the road and give them as much room as possible.
Don’t treat high winds lightly; it is a problem as dangerous as rain and fog. Take the bridges with extra caution and keep an eye out for weather updates. Those strong winds can indicate a severe storm or worse.
Driving in elements like rain, fog or strong winds can be a dangerous task. If done with caution and common sense, your journey through these items can be safe.