Do You Know How to Drive in Rough Times?


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I used to consider myself a good driver because I hadn’t had any major accident and I was quite careful on the road. Up until I had to drive in winter. That totally screwed with my “good-driver” impression. I was so lost and I was so scared that I wasn’t going to get back home that the entire trip remains a mystery to me. I don’t remember much of it. Just being stressed out of this life.

This is the reason why I think it’s important to have a few tips together in order to prepare oneself for the difficulties that appear when one is forced to drive in various weather conditions.

Winter

Photo source: arrivealive.co.za
Photo source: arrivealive.co.za

-when it comes to this icy season, it’s important to be constantly prepared and full. Meaning: full tank of gas, charged phone, money in your wallet and on your credit card, some food and water supplies and of course warm blankets.

-check to see if the exhaust pipe is clogged with anything (ice, mud, snow). A blocked exhaust can lead to leaks of monoxide gas straight into the compartment of the passengers while the engine is still running.

-drive slowly (accelerating and decelerating). This is one of the best ways to regain traction and to avoid dangerous skids. During winter, due to the ice or the wet pavement accelerating or stopping doesn’t happen as fast as it does on dry pavement. Try to give yourself time to react at the dangers that might appear and give your car time to adapt to the weather conditions.

Rain

Photo source: cars.aol.co.uk
Photo source: cars.aol.co.uk

-the first thing to do when you drive on a rainy day is to turn on your wipers. Make sure you replace them at least once a year so that you can be sure that in times of rain your windshield will be clear and will not distort your view.

-you know it’s time to pull over when you cannot see at a safe distance in front of you. Choose protected or rest areas and if you cannot find any of these pull off as far as possible and wait for the storm to pass. And don’t forget to keep your headlights on.

-drive slowly when the roads are flooded and never venture into the unknown. If you can, stop the car and check the level of the water in front of you. It is not advisable to go through the water if this is higher than the level of your wheels. Choose security instead of rapidity and protect yourself and your car.

Remember that when the weather changes, your way of driving should change too. So remain focused and alert at all times.