Driving is one of the most dangerous activities. Whether you accept it or not, it is the activity that takes the most lives every year. Why is that? Well there are quite a few factors contributing to dangerous situations on the road. Driving in hazardous weather conditions is when many accidents occur. The human factor comes into play often during dangerous weather. Lack of experience or human error is what makes things worse.
Will you get into a car accident?
It is not something most of us would want to think about, but it is good to discuss. Driving experience is not the only factor that matters when it comes safe driving. Outside factors often contribute to accidents on the road. Such are always weather and road conditions.
Snow and Ice
The winter means you should prepare for snow and ice on the road. Winter is the time when the roads become really dangerous. Snow and ice contribute to slick roads and lower visibility. Snow accumulations compromises the traction between the tires and the road.
Moreover, even if you are extra vigilant you never know what other drivers may do. Someone driving at a high speed can skid and lose control of their vehicle. This is when the likelihood of accidents increases. So, always be alert and keep a safe distance between you other drivers on the road.
Rain
Loosing control of your vehicle is a scary feeling and it can happen while raining. One of the most dangerous moments while driving is during the first few minutes when it starts raining. Especially if the weather is hot and the asphalt heated.
When there is no rain for a long time grease and dirt accumulate on the roads, thus when it starts raining suddenly the road becomes very slick and dangerous. The water forms a thin layer which makes the road very slick.
To prevent accidents slow down and exercise extreme caution. Turn on your headlights, stay toward the middle of the road to avoid puddles and do not use cruise control. If you start to hydroplane, do not hit the breaks suddenly or turn the wheel. Release the gas pedal slowly and steer straight. Keep calm and focus on the road and your vehicle.
Freezing Rain
If you should go out and drive in freezing rain, then you must adjust your driving. The first thing you need to remember is to slow down. The roads become extremely dangerous when freezing rain starts to drop. Calm yourself and prepare for a longer ride. Try to be as smooth as possible in your driving.
Apply the gas and the breaks gently. Next thing to remember is to keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Make sure you keep your windshield warmed to prevent freezing as this will reduce your visibility. Driving in freezing rain is a serious matter and you should be alert and focused.
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Rush Hour and Urban Driving
Accidents happen in the city more often than probably on the highway. Busy city streets pose a risk for both pedestrians and drivers alike.
While driving in the city during rush hour, and on the highway alike, drivers should be extra careful. On the highway other drivers often make sudden lane changes or hit the brakes and this is when fender benders happen. When there is traffic you should drive slowly and be prepared to stop at any given moment.
In urban settings drivers should also be extra careful. It is important to keep an eye for pedestrians and bicyclists. Watch for crossing people even if there is no marked crosswalk. While bicyclists may have a designated bike lane, drivers lane often narrows suddenly and this could cause accidents. Pay attention and drive with the speed limit in urban settings and on the highway as well.
Both outside in nature and the city can create dangerous driving conditions. Thus, it is important that drivers adjust their habits and drive accordingly to the situation. Driving in hazardous conditions should not be taken slightly. Even the most experienced drivers make mistakes because they forget simple things which lead to accidents.
If you are moving across the country or the state often it is good idea to avoid driving and hire a professional auto transport company to ship your vehicle. This saves you time and worries, as well as wear and tear on the vehicle. For more information call us or request a car shipping quote online. Thank you.
