We all know how dangerous it is to drive in difficult weather, but there are instances that you can’t avoid. Whether you are bringing someone to the hospital or going on a cross-country road trip, there is always a good chance of finding yourself driving through rain and fog.
Limited visibility and slippery roads create the perfect formula for accidents, so it’s important to know how to keep yourself and your passengers safe. Check out these tips for added safety:
- Drive using low beam lights
If you are driving through heavy fog, you will need to let other drivers know where you are. It’s advisable to use low-beam lights which are specifically designed to illuminate the road under inclement weather. You can turn off your headlights once the weather clears up and you have a better view of the road. Never use high-beam lights that reflect back and blind you and other drivers. Some states may give you a citation if you are using high-beam light unnecessarily.
- Keep the speed low
Under heavy fog, it can be difficult to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Not only that, you may not be able to respond quickly enough when a pedestrian or an animal crosses your path. Black ice will also add to the danger. To ensure you have enough braking time and avoid losing control of your vehicle, reduce your speed and give yourself at least a five-second distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Avoid changing lanes
In an emergency situation, you may find it necessary to maneuver through traffic. However, changing lanes especially under inclement weather increases the risk of a head-on collision. Unless you are experienced enough in driving under difficult conditions, you are better off staying in one lane.
- Eliminate or keep distractions to a minimum
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of vehicle collisions. In fact, law firms such as Tampa-based Clearwater Car Accident Attorneys say that most car accident claims result from texting and driving. The risk increases when you are doing both while you are in icy and foggy road conditions. In such a situation, it’s important that you are aware of your surroundings. With visibility as an issue, you can only rely on your hearing to check if there’s oncoming traffic.
- Keep your vehicle in good condition
Bad weather can occur at any moment. You will need to prepare your vehicle for it even if the skies are clear. For that, check your tire pressure and make sure your brakes are working. You will also need to check if there is a need for an oil and fluid change. In addition, make sure your headlights and low beams are clean and provide the right amount of illumination in rain and fog.
You can’t always avoid driving under bad weather, but it comes to safety, you need to know exactly what to do. Knowledge is protection, so consider the tips above for a safer driving experience.
