It's not unusual to have bad weather and dangerous driving conditions. In winter weather conditions such as rain, wind, snow, ice, sleet, and fog, hurricanes, tornadoes, and electrical storms, it is crucial to practice safe driving methods. If an extreme weather system is passing through your area, it is preferable to postpone a vacation and stay at home rather than driving. However, if you are stuck into serious commitments then these are the tips you can follow to ensure safe driving.
Tips to drive safe in bad weather conditions
Living in Australia means you'll be exposed to a wide range of weather conditions regardless of whatever the season is, which means you'll be driving in rainy weather at unexpected times. Many people are unaware of how critical it is to drive properly in these conditions, which can result in numerous accidents.
Here are some driving guidelines for bad weather conditions:
Delay the trip, if you can:- First and foremost, always consider whether you really need to be on the road. In heavy rain, ask your boss about flexible work arrangements and postpone non-essential travel. To avoid traffic, choose mass transport. If you must travel by car, try to schedule your journeys outside of peak hours, as major highways are already crowded at the times.
Take your time:- Always allow extra travel time when the weather is not good, as traffic moves at a considerably slower speed. People are more careful and drive more slowly. This means you'll need extra time to guarantee you get to your destination on time and without rushing! When driving in bad weather conditions, roads can be flooded or clogged, producing additional traffic, so leave a little early.
Night driving:- Driving at night with bad weather is something one should avoid but in the case of an emergency make sure your headlights are turned on - this is something that both buses and cars should remember because cyclists and pedestrians are hard to locate because of low visibility caused by severe weather condition, yet this will also enhance your reaction time and you will be more cautious on the roadways. This will improve your visibility on the road and alert other cars of your presence. When you make your presence known when driving in rainy weather, other cars will be able to see you and maybe prevent any problematic or dangerous circumstances. If you're driving on Australian roads, use a low beam instead of a high beam because the high beam is illegal.
Car accessory:- Drivers in Australia's mountainous regions are required to have snow chains in their vehicles. In difficult situations, these chains aid tyre grip. Before you go, make sure you know how to install the snow chains. You simply need to attach chains to the vehicle's two driving wheels (unless driving a four-wheel drive). It is advised when driving with snow chains, do not to exceed 40 kilometres per hour.
Animal zone:- Animals on the road are a typical sight when you are on roads of Australia. This is especially at night and at sunrise, even more so when natural grazing vegetation has been dried up by wildfires and drought and in extreme weather conditions. While being on road during bad weather conditions it is always advised to drive in the tracks this makes the side of the road an ideal spot for animals to cool off and nibble on some tasty grass. As a result, collision with an animal — whether a pet, livestock, or wild animal can be avoided.
Other important tips to keep in mind when driving in bad weather:-
Make sure your tyres and spare tyre are in good condition.
Carry a first-aid kit with you at all times.
When following another vehicle, keep a 3 to 4 car distance between you and the vehicle in front of you and travel at a slower speed than usual.
Inspect your car wipers frequently.
Slowly raise your speed and prevent abrupt braking
Always stay in the left lane and avoid overtaking.
If you are someone who recently started learning to be on-road then you must approach Safewheeelz for the best driving lessons. They provide you with a broad understanding of how to be on the road and instil confidence in you so that you can be safe on the roads.
Always remember the key to being on-road while in extremely bad weather conditions is to be calm. It's critical to remember these severe weather driving precautions whether you're driving a bus, truck, or car. Everyone's top focus should be on roads and safety. Remember that you are not alone on the road, and your decision can impact others. When driving in wet weather, be cautious and think about everyone else on the road.
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