At some point or another, we all have to drive in sub-par weather and/or road conditions. Being aware of the risks associated with such conditions can make a big difference in overall safety–and it is especially important for teenagers and young drivers who lack driving experience.
In this article, we will discuss a few of the most common road and weather conditions that can affect driving safety, and we will suggest safety tips to help deal with these dangers.
● Icy Roads. When snow and ice cover the roads, car crashes become far more likely to occur. The best thing to do in such a situation is slow down. Even SUVs and vehicles with features such as four wheel drive and stability control are extremely susceptible to weather related accidents, so it is also important to be constantly aware of your surroundings. It is also important to break early, as breaks are generally less effective on ice and snow.
● Rain. Rain can also be a road hazard. It reduces braking ability and maneuverability while increasing the risks of hydroplaning. Additionally, it poses risks such as reduced visibility and standing water. Again, just as with icy and snowy road, rain necessitates slower speeds and more awareness.
● Fog. Fog may seem like a lesser threat than rain and snow, but it can also cause accidents. Decreased visibility gives us less time to react against potential dangers, and it makes simple driving maneuvers such as changing lanes and breaking much more dangerous. Fog can even make headlights counter-effective and it tends to reflect the light back at drivers rather than illuminating the path ahead.
The number one factor in terms of reducing the risks of driving? Experience. Experienced drivers are far better at managing weather related risks. That’s precisely what makes driving lessons so important. Contact Top Driver today to learn more about driving lessons for your teen!