Driving conditions constantly change. We all know some conditions are better than others. Although there’s not much we can do about the weather or traffic, knowing how to handle different driving conditions can make you a safer driver. Being prepared can also help prevent car accidents in Atlanta.
Before getting in the car, it’s important to check the driving conditions. Sometimes driving conditions change while already en route. These changes include weather shifts, obstacles on the road, or unexpected construction updates. Being aware of these changes can help you adjust your driving accordingly.
What To Do in Bad Driving Conditions
It might be pouring rain, very foggy, or there’s simply more traffic than usual on your commute. It’s easy to panic when these things happen. However, keeping a cool head will make for a safer drive.
Rain
Driving in the rain is a difficult experience. Wet roads offer less grip for tires, and reduced visibility can make driving more challenging. Reduce your speed to account for the slippery road surfaces. Also, increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react to hazards.
Avoid driving through large puddles if possible. Large puddles could cause a car to hydroplane. Hydroplaning happens when tires lose contact with the road surface, making it difficult to control the vehicle.
Fog
Similar to rain, fog drastically reduces visibility. Reduced visibility makes it tough to see other vehicles, which is dangerous. Drivers often don’t see a stopped car in the fog or correctly judge the distance to the vehicle ahead of them.
In foggy conditions, ensure low beam headlights are on. If visibility is extremely low, use fog lights. Slow down, checking your speedometer, as a driver’s sense of speed is skewed in fog. Use windshield wipers, just like you would when it is raining, and increase your following distance more than usual, so there is enough time to brake safely.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, uneven pavement, or debris in the road can all impact driving. Additionally, road construction, detours, or closures affect traffic flow, causing unexpected slowdowns or lane closures.
Always pay attention to any road signs indicating poor road conditions or upcoming construction zones. Stay aware and prepared to adjust speed or route if necessary. Being aware of poor road conditions can prevent accidents and ensure a smoother commute.
Heavy Traffic
Heavy traffic increases the likelihood of accidents. Many underestimate how much traffic congestion affects driving conditions. Heavy traffic increases driver stress, leading to road rage and poor decision-making. It is important to stay aware of how other drivers react in these conditions.
Adjust driving habits to match heavy traffic conditions. Avoiding distractions, maintaining a safe following distance, and using signals appropriately to communicate intentions, which is important for the driver’s safety, as well as the safety of others on the road.
Winter Road Conditions
Winter driving is in a league of its own. When winter arrives, it brings hazards like ice and snow. Some states, like Wisconsin, offer tools like the 511WI to check the Winter Road Conditions List. This list helps drivers in Wisconsin stay up to date with road closures and changing road conditions.
During winter, reduce driving speed. It is even more critical to slow down when approaching bridges and overpasses. These areas tend to freeze first, making them more dangerous than other stretches of road. Allow extra distance between vehicles, as stopping distances increase on slippery roads.
Avoid distractions while driving and always wear a seatbelt. Ensure tires are appropriate for the weather, with sufficient tread depth.
Additional Tips for Difficult Driving Conditions
When driving, staying alert is key to safety. Being mindful of potential hazards makes for a safer drive for everyone. Some hazards to watch out for include:
- Animals crossing the road.
- Pedestrians, especially in poor visibility.
- Cyclists who may be sharing the road.
To get up to date driving conditions, always check the weather before you go out on the road. Your state Department of Transportation will often have updated road conditions and your GPS will often have updated information on road conditions as you are driving.
Staying Safe on the Roads in Georgia
Staying informed, adapting behavior, and utilizing available technology makes all the difference. These factors contribute significantly to successfully dealing with all driving conditions. The next time you are facing challenging driving conditions, take a moment to adjust driving and prioritize safety. You’ll feel more in control and arrive at your destination safe and sound.
Remember that you can be 100% safe and that accidents will still happen If you are injured in an accident, you can work with Scholle Law, an Atlanta car accident lawyer, if you’d like to pursue a case.