No matter how many years you have driven on a given road, it would be best if you always were careful about the weather conditions on the road. Never drive faster or in a way that is unsafe for the prevailing weather conditions. Some common foul weather conditions include fog, snow and rain. Each of them presents specific challenges that you should learn to counter before leaving your home. Here is a quick guideline on dealing with these challenges.
Fog
Dense fog is a dangerous condition as it impairs your vision and prevents you from seeing things ahead. Do not drive in the fog if you do not have to. However, if you must drive, do not use high beam headlights as they reflect the light and make it hard for you to see. Instead, use fog lights or your regular ones. Besides, use the white and yellow lines on the road to keep to your lane. Also, avoid overtaking or coming too close to the vehicle in front of you.
Driving in Rain
You need to invest in good quality windshield wipers on a rainy day. Dull and dirty wipers can limit your visibility and increase the risk of an accident. In addition, slippery roads may cause the vehicle to take longer to stop. Therefore, leave a longer distance between yourself and the car in front of you. Remember to turn on your lights so that you visible to other drivers. Besides, avoid puddles of water or slow down when you get to one. Water can make the vehicle hydroplane and become hard to control.
Driving on Sand or Stone Chippings
Sand and stone chippings can seriously cause windshield damage when they fly and hit the vehicle. Therefore, drive slowly in these road conditions. If caught in a windstorm, park your vehicle at the side of the road and continue with the journey when it is safe. You should also avoid using the windscreen wipers before cleaning them so that you do not scratch the glass with any particles that might be trapped between the wipers and the windscreen.
Snow
When driving in snow, it is going to take twice the time it would have taken to reach your destination. Therefore, leave your home early if you have appointments to attend. Test your brakes when parking if you have not been driving in the condition for some time. It is also important to change to appropriate tires to prevent skidding. Besides, take corners slowly so that you do not lose control.
Ensure that the Vehicle is in Good Condition
Ensure that the vehicle is in good condition before driving in foul weather. Have the tires, wipers and brakes checked regularly throughout the season. In case of an accident, seek assistance from a competent auto repair outlets. For example, a competent windshield repair expert can help repair minor scratches on the windshield or replace it in case of substantial damage. Never drive a vehicle that is not in good condition.
