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Here in the Deep South, we don’t get a lot of snow, and ice is rare as well. But if you’ve ever driven through a strong thunderstorm, you know that we still have plenty of severe weather to cope with. Drivers need to take special precautions when driving in bad conditions.
In high winds try to avoid driving a trailer, van or other high-profile vehicle. When you’re out driving in high winds, use extra caution near trailers, vans or vehicles carrying lightweight cargo.
When it’s raining, slow down. Road surfaces often accumulate a film of oil, and rain mixes with it to create a slippery mess. Braking time is increased, and it’s much easier to lose control of your vehicle. Always turn on your lights in the rain—even when it’s just sprinkling. While you may be able to see where you’re going, you want to be sure others see you. Use the defroster or air conditioner to keep windows and mirrors clear.
When driving in fog, slower traffic should stay to the right of the roadway. Keep your headlights on—day or night—on low beam. High beams bounce off the fog, where low beans can penetrate to the road surface. If you can’t see the road’s edge, pull off to the right, well out of traffic, and turn on the emergency flashers. Many times fog lifts in a few minutes.
In severe thunderstorms, slow down, keep the lights on, turn your wipers on high speed and remove distractions like the radio. If the rain is too strong, you may want to pull off the road, but do so carefully—if someone is following your tail lights, they need to know that you’re stopping! In a hailstorm find shelter by driving under an overpass or bridge. This can help prevent damage to your vehicle.
If you see a tornado, never try to out run it. Get out of the car and find shelter. If you can’t get to a safe structure, lie down in a ditch or low area. Lie face down to protect yourself from flying debris and cover the back of your head and neck with your hands. Stay alert for flash floods. If a hurricane is approaching, avoid low areas and do not wait to travel inland.
It pays to be prepared when driving, because severe weather can come up with very little warning. If you’re stranded on the roadside, an umbrella, a granola bar and a bottle of water would be welcome relief.
Published 04/04/07
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