Driving in severe weather can be very dangerous, so it’s important to take extra precautions. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed to account for slick or wet roads. Wet, icy, or snowy roads can increase stopping distances and reduce control of your vehicle.
- Increase Following Distance: Give yourself extra space between your vehicle and others on the road, as it will take longer to stop.
- Use Your Lights: Turn on your headlights to increase your visibility, even during the day. This helps other drivers see you, especially in fog, rain, or snow.
- Avoid Cruise Control: In poor weather conditions, it’s better to have full control over the vehicle. Avoid using cruise control, as it can cause loss of traction in slippery conditions.
- Stay Informed: Check weather reports and road conditions before heading out. If the weather is too severe, it may be best to delay travel.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Make sure your car is equipped for the conditions, such as having tires that are suitable for snow or rain. Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition and keep your gas tank at least half-full.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Avoid quick steering or braking that could cause a skid. If you do begin to skid, remain calm and steer in the direction you want to go.
- Don’t Use Your Brakes in Snow or Ice: If you’re driving on ice or snow, avoid slamming on your brakes. Instead, apply gradual pressure to slow down or stop.
- Pull Over if Necessary: If the weather becomes too severe, find a safe place to pull over, away from the road, and wait for conditions to improve. Make sure your vehicle is visible to other drivers.
- Be Aware of Black Ice: Especially in freezing conditions, watch for black ice, which is difficult to see but very slippery. It often forms in shady areas or on bridges and overpasses.
When driving in high winds, you should slow down, keep a safe distance, and be aware of debris.
Slow down
- Reduce your speed to give yourself more time to react.
- Avoid using cruise control.
Keep a safe distance
- Leave extra space between you and other vehicles.
- Avoid high-profile vehicles like trucks and SUVs.
Be aware of debris
- Watch for objects blowing into your path and Be prepared to avoid obstacles.
Driving in heavy rain can be challenging iand dangerous, but following a few safety tips can help you stay safe:
- Slow Down: Wet roads reduce traction, so driving at lower speeds helps to prevent hydroplaning and gives you more time to react.
- Increase Following Distance: Give yourself more space between you and the car ahead. This allows more room to stop if needed and helps avoid water splashing onto your windshield.
- Use Your Headlights: Turn on your headlights, even if it’s daytime. This helps you see better and makes it easier for other drivers to see you.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Make smooth, gradual steering, braking, and acceleration. Sudden moves can cause loss of control.
- Check Tire Tread: Ensure your tires have sufficient tread to provide better grip on wet surfaces.
- Keep Windshield Wipers in Good Condition: Make sure your wipers are working properly to ensure good visibility.
- Avoid Puddles and Flooded Areas: Driving through deep water can lead to hydroplaning or even engine damage. If the road looks flooded, find an alternate route.
- Stay Calm: If visibility becomes too poor or the rain is too heavy, pull over to a safe spot and wait for conditions to improve.
Contact Doylestown Auto Repair at 267-279-9477 or visit our website at www.doylestownautoshop.com to schedule an appointment to have your car serviced!
