Critical Driving Tips for Traveling in Severe Weather

The weather can be an unpredictable and terrible force when you find yourself during a storm on the road. In Florida, the weather can change quickly between sunny skies and severe thunderstorms in just minutes. Wherever you live, there is always the risk of being caught unprepared by the weather when you are driving.

Knowing how to pilot your vehicle properly in the toughest of conditions can help save your life and the lives of your family. The most important thing is to stay calm and get off the road as soon as possible when the conditions become dangerous. Whether you get caught in a whiteout or are being threatened by hurricane-strength winds, it’s essential to put your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road as a priority.

As the global weather patterns continue to change due to global warming, the intensity of severe storm systems increases. Over six million car accidents each year in the U.S. happen as a result of extreme weather conditions. Before you have to contact a Tampa Car Crash Lawyer, take a look at some of these critical tips for driving in severe weather.

Ice and Snow

For those that live in the northern states, winter weather is a dangerous reality. Driving on snow and ice with the ever-present possibility of a whiteout can be challenging. Standard driving tips for snow and ice can help you stay safe on the roads.

Slow Down

• Fast speeds will impair your ability to stop. Ice and snow decrease your grip on the road and can put you at risk of a collision.

Brake Lightly

• Slamming on your brakes in the ice and snow can result in sliding or spinning out of control. When you need to stop, gently press your brakes repeatedly to slow down.

Clear Windows

• When it’s snowing, your visibility can be impaired. Make sure that you clear all of your vehicle windows off before you hit the road.

Leave Room

• It can take much longer to come to a complete stop when driving in ice and snow. Leave a larger space between you and other cars so that you can avoid a collision if you fail to stop quickly.

Winter Tires

• If you live in an area with seasonal snow, you should invest in winter tires and have them installed in the fall. Winter tires have a different tread that gives your vehicle more grip on the road in icy conditions. 

Rain

Many parts of the country, including Florida and states in the Pacific Northwest, get seasonal rain. Driving in hard rain can hinder your visibility and put you at risk of an accident. When going in the shower, keep these tips in mind.

Turn On Headlights

• In many states, it is the law that you must turn on your headlights if you are driving in the rain during the day. This not only makes your path more visible but allows other drivers to see you more clearly.

Pull Over

• Heavy rain can turn the roadways into dangerous places to drive. If your wipers can’t keep up during a downpour, it’s best to pull over and wait it out.

Avoid Cruise Control

• In heavy rain, you need to keep your reaction times quick, so it’s best to turn off your cruise control and maintain awareness.

High Winds

If you live in an area that experiences tornados or hurricanes, you may end up driving in conditions that include high winds.

Both Hands On the Wheel

• It is crucial to take as much control as possible of your vehicle in high winds by always driving with both hands on the wheel.

Pull Over

• Finding a spot to pull over where your vehicle is protected from the wind is the best solution when driving in conditions that include high winds.

Driving in severe weather can be scary and dangerous. It’s important to always check the weather forecast before heading out so you can avoid ending up on the roads when the weather is terrible. Follow these tips to help you stay on the road when the weather is severe.