Tips for driving in dangerous conditions this winter

Arabia Weather - With the advent of winter and the weather changing to cold, rainy mornings and foggy skies have become common for everyone. Therefore, this article highlights three challenges that you may face in weather conditions like these, and how you can successfully overcome them to reach your destination safely.

In the event of water accumulation, the risk of wheel slippage increases. This phenomenon occurs when heavy rain causes water to accumulate between the tire and the road surface, which impedes the tires’ adhesion to the road, and reduces the force of friction as the driver loses the ability to steer, brake, and accelerate, which can lead to a loss of control. And accidents happen.

Two other factors that contribute to the situation are the speed of the vehicle and the condition of the tires; A tire in good condition can handle reasonable amounts of water, while a tire with low tread has difficulty treading on water, which can lead to water accumulating under the tire.

Some warning signs indicate that the car may slip on a wet surface, such as a louder engine roar and less force being needed by the steering process, in addition to the rear of the car swaying from side to side.

How do you control the vehicle when it slides on a wet road?

First, now that you are aware of the dangers of driving in wet road conditions, let us give you some tips for controlling your vehicle when it slips on the wet road:

• Keep calm

When a slip occurs, avoid anxiety and remain calm, as this will help you make the right decisions quickly.

• Avoid immediate actions

Avoid applying force on the brakes or turning the steering wheel suddenly, as this could lead to loss of control and risk of skidding.

• Maintain driving direction

Keep the steering wheel upright and gradually lift your foot off the accelerator, and as the vehicle speed decreases, the wheels will gradually regain power and control will return.

• Move the steering wheel gently

You can now move the steering wheel slowly and steadily, and apply the brakes gently. This helps you gradually regain control.

• Turn off the cruise control system

If cruise control is activated, it is preferable to stop it using the designated button, not using the brakes, and when the car regains control, you can gently apply the brakes to slow down.

By following these tips, you can improve your chances of controlling your vehicle in the event of a slip on wet roads and avoid dangerous situations.

How to avoid slipping on wet roads

• Check weather conditions

Before setting off, check the weather and be aware of the expected conditions, especially if you plan to drive long distances and be aware of oil or mud on the road, look for warning signs, follow directions and adjust your driving style according to weather and road conditions.

• Speed monitoring

When driving at high speeds, tire grip on the road decreases, and braking distances increase on wet roads.

Therefore, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

• Pay attention to the condition of the tires

Check your tires regularly and make sure they are filled with air at the right pressure, and in case of wet roads, make sure the tire tread depth is more than 1.6 millimetres.

• Commitment to the path

When the front vehicle leaves “tracks” in the water, follow these tracks so that this reduces the chances of skidding.

• Drive carefully

In wet road conditions, avoid sudden steering changes, act gently and avoid sharp turns, as these movements increase the risk of skidding.

How to get rid of fog on the windshield from the inside?

• Use the heater

Turn the heater on to a cold position and gradually increase the temperature to dry the air and avoid saturating the cabin with humid air.

• Use air conditioning and windows

Use the air conditioner in conjunction with the heater to keep the air inside the cabin dry, and the windows can also be opened.

• Wait for the glass to dry

Do not drive off before the car glass is clean. It is recommended to stop in a safe place and wait for the car glass to dry.

• Use fog lights

When in fog, use fog lights to improve visibility, and make sure you know where the switch is.

How to behave while driving in fog

When you are exposed to foggy conditions while driving, there are some measures you should take to ensure your safety and the safety of others:

• Check mirrors and reduce speed

When you notice fog in front of you, check your rear mirrors and reduce your speed. This helps maintain visibility and avoid surprises.

• Use of spaces

Use the wipers regularly and keep the inner glass clean to avoid fogging.

• Increase safety distance

Increase the safety distance between your car and the vehicle in front to at least four seconds, especially in fog conditions.

• Use fog lights with caution

It is preferable to use fog lights when visibility is less than 100 meters and avoid using high beams to avoid obstructing vision.

• Do not rely on rear lights

Do not rely on your car's headlights in fog conditions, as they can cause false signals to other drivers.

• Open the windows to listen

If visibility is very limited, lower your car windows to listen to the sounds of movement around you.

• Stop in case of zero visibility

If visibility is almost non-existent, consider stopping until the fog clears.

If you need to use fog lights, be sure to use them carefully depending on weather conditions

Read also:

Important tips for safe driving in foggy and rainy weather

Aerial term What is fog and how is it formed?

Sources:

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