Driving Safety Best Practices for Difficult Road Conditions

Driving in challenging road conditions requires heightened awareness, preparation, and adaptability. Regardless of your environment, understanding how to adjust your driving habits can make all the difference. 

Below is a comprehensive guide on best practices for driving in difficult road conditions. Keep reading to explore expert safety insights from Thompson Sales in Springfield, Missouri.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Adverse Conditions

Before hitting the road, ensure your car is equipped to handle hazardous weather. Proper maintenance can prevent accidents and mechanical failures.

Tires

Check tire tread depth and pressure. Consider switching to winter tires if you live in areas prone to snow or ice.

Brakes

Ensure your brakes are in good working condition. Noisy or unresponsive brakes should be addressed immediately.

Fluids

Get regular oil changes so that your car runs at peak performance. Also ensure that brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid are at optimal levels.

Emergency Kit

Stock your car with essentials like a flashlight, jumper cables, blankets, water, and a fully charged phone.

Schedule Service at Thompson Sales in Springfield, Missouri

To keep your car in the best condition possible, schedule regular maintenance. Thompson Sales in Springfield, Missouri has a reputation for quality service and highly satisfied customers. Book your next appointment to ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and safe!

Adjust Your Speed and Following Distance

Speeding is especially dangerous in poor conditions. Adjusting your speed and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles can prevent collisions. Reduce your speed by at least 10 mph below the limit during rain or snow. You should also maintain at least 300 feet (or more) between you and the vehicle ahead to allow ample time for braking.

Master Driving Safety in Different Environments

Driving safety best practices vary significantly depending on whether you’re navigating city streets, suburban neighborhoods, rural roads, or highways. Each environment presents unique challenges that require tailored strategies to ensure safety. In Springfield, Missouri, and the surrounding area, you likely encounter a mix of all of these. As proud members of the community for five generations, the Thompson team is here to help you keep our streets safe. 

City Driving

City driving often involves heavy traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, and frequent stops. To stay safe, avoid distractions such as phone usage and double-check blind spots before turning or changing lanes. 

Using navigation apps can help you plan routes and avoid congested areas. Additionally, defensive driving is crucial—anticipate the actions of other drivers and pedestrians to minimize risks.

Suburban Driving

Suburban areas typically have less congestion than cities. However, they may include school zones, residential streets, and intersections with limited visibility. Drivers should watch for children and pedestrians crossing unexpectedly near schools or parks. 

Adhering to speed limits is essential since suburban roads often have lower limits than urban areas. Smooth acceleration and braking help maintain control and prevent accidents in these quieter environments.

Rural Driving

Rural roads can be narrow, poorly lit, or unpaved. Drivers should remain alert for wildlife crossing the road and farm equipment that moves slowly. Maintaining a safe speed is critical as rural roads often lack clear signage or guardrails. 

Additionally, ensure your vehicle is prepared for emergencies since roadside assistance may be less accessible in remote areas.

Highway Driving

Highways demand higher speeds and quick decision-making. When sharing the road with large vehicles like semi-trucks, ensure they can see you by staying out of their blind spots. Stick to the right lane unless overtaking and adjust your speed based on weather conditions or construction zones.

By adapting your driving habits to suit each environment, you can navigate safely and confidently regardless of road conditions.

Driving Safety in Specific Weather Conditions

Each type of adverse weather presents unique challenges. Below are some tips to master vehicle safety in different conditions. 

Rain

• Use headlights and windshield wipers to improve visibility.
• Avoid hard braking and sudden acceleration to prevent hydroplaning.
• Turn off cruise control to maintain full control of your vehicle.

Snow and Ice

• Reduce speed significantly and use winter tires or chains if necessary.
• Avoid sudden braking; instead, pump the brakes gently to avoid skidding.
• If you start to skid, steer into the direction of the skid to regain control.

Fog

• Use low-beam headlights or fog lights. High beams can reflect off the fog and reduce visibility further.
• Drive slowly and avoid overtaking other vehicles unless absolutely necessary.

Floods

• Never attempt to drive through standing water. As little as 12 inches of rushing water can carry away most vehicles.
• If unavoidable, drive slowly in a low gear to avoid stalling. Test your brakes afterward.

Wind

• Be cautious of crosswinds, especially on open roads or bridges. High-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable.
• Grip the steering wheel firmly to maintain control during gusts of wind.

Defensive Driving Techniques

Defensive driving becomes even more critical in difficult conditions. While it would be great to expect other drivers to prioritize safety, this isn’t always the reality. Stay alert for unpredictable drivers or obstacles. Additionally, follow best practices for extending the life of your vehicle. 

Regardless of how other drivers behave, hold yourself to a higher standard. Avoid tailgating to give others plenty of space to maneuver safely. It’s also incredibly important to use your turn signals. By signaling early and avoiding sudden lane changes, you can help make the roads a safer place. 

Plan Ahead Before You Drive

Preparation can save lives when driving in challenging conditions. Here are some tips to stay proactive about potential disruptions.

• Check weather apps using reliable apps or local news before heading out.
• Plan your route to avoid areas prone to flooding or icy patches. Stick to main roads that are more likely to be cleared or salted during snowstorms.
• Postpone or reschedule trips during severe weather whenever feasible. While canceling a trip or vacation is disappointing, safety should be the top concern.

What To Do During Emergencies

Even with precautions, emergencies can happen. Knowing how to react can mitigate risks.

• If you lose control on icy roads, take your foot off the accelerator and steer gently into the skid. You’ll likely feel tempted to brake, but this can cause your vehicle to lose even more control.
• If visibility becomes too poor (e.g., heavy rain or fog), pull over safely until conditions improve. 
• In case of flooding, abandon your vehicle if water levels rise rapidly around it. Your car and other possessions are never as important as your physical safety.

Stay Calm Under Pressure

Driving in difficult conditions can be stressful, but staying calm ensures better decision-making. Take deep breaths if you feel overwhelmed. Lastly, focus on one task at a time—whether it’s steering through snow or navigating around debris. Whether you have the newest vehicle available or a reliable used vehicle, staying calm reduces the risk of damage. 

Make Driving Safety a Top Priority

Driving in adverse conditions demands preparation, caution, and adaptability. With these driving safety best practices, you can ensure a safer journey for yourself and others on the road.

Find the Perfect Vehicle at Thompson Sales 

Since 1919, Thompson Sales has provided premier Buick and GMC vehicles to Springfield and the surrounding areas. Reach out today to take the first step toward purchasing your next vehicle.