Driving is a regular part of life, but it can quickly become dangerous when severe weather strikes. Whether it is heavy rain, snow, ice, or strong winds, hazardous conditions can make it difficult to control your vehicle and stay safe on the road.
While the best practice is to avoid driving in driving in inclement weather, sometimes it is unavoidable, and you may find yourself needing to drive through a storm. Knowing how to respond when caught in severe weather can significantly increase your safety.
At Click2Drive, a professional driving school in Santa Clarita, our goal is to help drivers navigate through these challenges with confidence. So, this beneficial post will cover all essential tips for driving in severe weather, so that you are prepared the next time you face a storm while driving.
By following these tips and practicing defensive driving, you can reduce your risk of accidents and arrive at your destination safely. Let’s begin.
What Should You Do If Caught in Severe Storm Conditions?
Driving safely in severe weather is important to stay safe on the road. Follow these essential tips when you are driving in bad weather or bad road conditions like: –
- Rain
- Winds
- Fog
- Flood
- Tornado
- Thunderstorm
- Snow and Ice
What to Do When Driving in Bad Weather Like Rain?
When driving in inclement weather like rain you should: –
- Slow Down and Maintain Distance
Reduce your speed to improve traction and minimize the risk of skidding. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles to allow for extra braking time on wet roads.
- Use Low Beam Headlights
Switch to low beam headlights to improve visibility without causing glare. it helps you see clearly and makes your vehicle more visible to others in rainy conditions.
- Avoid Hydroplaning
Stay clear of large puddles and standing water. If you begin to hydroplane, gently ease off the accelerator and steer calmly until your tires regain contact with the road.
- Check Your Windshield Wipers
Make sure your windshield wipers are functioning properly to maintain clear visibility. Replace old or worn wiper blades to effectively handle heavy rain.
Tips to Follow When Driving in Adverse Weather Conditions Like High Winds
When driving in bad weather, like high winds drivers should: –
- Keep Both Hands on the Wheel
Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel to prevent sudden gusts from pushing your vehicle off course. Stay focused and alert.
- Reduce Your Speed
Drive slowly to maintain better control and decrease the risk of swerving. Higher speeds make it harder to react to strong wind gusts.
- Watch for Larger Vehicles
Be cautious around trucks, buses, and trailers, as they are more vulnerable to swaying caused by the wind. Allow them extra space to maneuver.
- Avoid Open Areas and Bridges
Winds tend to be stronger in open areas and on elevated roads. If possible, choose alternative routes that provide more natural windbreaks.
How to Respond When Driving Inclement Weather Like Fog?
When you are driving on an interstate highway in bad weather such as fog, you can follow these important tips: –
- Use Low-Beam Headlights
Always turn on your low-beam headlights to improve visibility in foggy conditions. Avoid using high beams, as they can reflect off the fog and further impair your vision.
- Slow Down and Keep Distance
Reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Fog decreases visibility, so exercising extra caution helps prevent accidents due to sudden stops.
- Rely on Road Markings
Focus on the road lines and markings to stay in your lane. It is best to avoid following the taillights of the car in front of you, as this can lead to unsafe driving conditions.
- Use Fog Lights if Available
Turn on your fog lights for better visibility. If your vehicle doesn’t have fog lights, make sure your headlights and hazard lights are functioning properly to ensure maximum safety.
Steps to Take when Driving in Bad Road Conditions Like Flood
When driving in adverse weather conditions like floods, you can follow these tips: –
- Avoid Deep-Water Areas
Stay away from flooded roads or areas with standing water. Just six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and may stall it.
- Drive Slowly and Steadily
If you must drive through water, proceed slowly in low gear. Maintain steady momentum to help prevent water from entering the engine or causing hydroplaning.
- Test Your Brakes After Crossing
Once you leave a flooded area, gently press your brakes to make sure they are functioning correctly and to help them dry out.
- Stay Alert for Road Hazards
Keep an eye out for submerged debris, potholes, or downed power lines. Floodwater can hide dangerous obstacles that could damage your vehicle or pose safety risks.
Steps to Follow When Driving in Adverse Weather like Tornado
Follow these effective tips for driving safely in severe weather such as a tornado,
- Find Shelter Immediately
Look for the nearest sturdy structure, such as a building or storm shelter. Staying in your vehicle is not safe, as it provides limited protection against flying debris and strong winds.
- Avoid Overpasses and Bridges
Overpasses can create wind tunnels that may intensify tornado winds, making them particularly dangerous. Instead, seek low ground, such as a ditch, and lie flat while protecting your head from debris.
- Keep Your Seatbelt On
If escaping is not possible, park your vehicle, fasten your seatbelt, and duck below the windows. Cover your head with your hands or a blanket for added safety.
Actions to Take When Driving in Severe Weather Like Thunderstorm
Follow these below steps for safely driving in thunderstorm: –
- Slow Down and Increase Your Following Distance
In reduced visibility and slippery road conditions, lower your speed to maintain control of your vehicle. Increase your following distance to prevent accidents, especially if other drivers stop suddenly or experience hydroplaning.
- Use Your Headlights and Windshield Wipers
Turn on your headlights to improve visibility, even during daylight. Keep your windshield wipers set to a high speed to clear the rain quickly and enhance your ability to see through the storm.
- Pull Over Safely
If conditions worsen, pull over to a safe location, such as a parking lot or rest area. Stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until the storm subsides to protect you from debris and lightning hazards.
What to Do When Driving in Bad Weather Like Snow and Ice?
When driving in bad weather such as snow and ice, drivers should: –
- Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
When driving in snow and ice, it is essential to remain calm and assess the road conditions. Avoid panicking, as this can impair your judgment and lead to poor decisions. Your focus should be on staying safe.
- Avoid Sudden Movements
Make gradual turns and avoid sudden acceleration or braking. Abrupt actions can cause your vehicle to lose traction, resulting in a skid. Always steer smoothly and steadily to maintain control of your vehicle.
- Use Your Headlights and Stay Visible
Always keep your headlights on, even during the daytime. Snowstorms and ice can significantly reduce visibility, so having your lights on helps other drivers see you and can prevent accidents.
Common Instructions for Driving in All Severe Weather Conditions
Stay Calm
Panicking will only worsen the situation. Remain calm and focused, and make smooth, steady movements when steering or braking.
Avoid Distractions
In severe weather, your attention should be solely on the road. Avoid using your phone or adjusting the radio while driving.
Know When to Pull Over
If conditions become too dangerous, it is better to pull over and wait for improvements. Find a safe spot off the road, such as a parking lot or rest area, and turn on your hazard lights while you wait.
Final Advice- Driving in Adverse Weather Conditions
Driving in inclement weather can be a significant challenge that every driver may face at some point. The key to staying safe is knowing how to adjust your driving techniques for various weather conditions. Whether it is heavy rain, snow, ice, fog, or high winds, being prepared for driving in adverse weather conditions is all you need to learn.
At Click2Drive, the top driving school in Santa Clarita, CA, we equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle severe weather confidently. Our online driver’s education course offers comprehensive lessons on defensive driving, managing hazardous conditions, and ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Are you ready to become a safer, more confident driver? Enroll in our driving lessons in Santa Clarita today and arm yourself with the tools needed to navigate severe weather and any other challenges the road may present.
