Safe driving is something that we should all aspire toward. Sometimes, obstacles on the road or environmental factors make safe driving a challenge. You can deal with dangerous road hazards in many ways to keep yourself, your vehicle, your passengers, and other drivers on the road safe from an accident.
Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is a common problem when driving in heavy rain or on wet roads. When this happens, your tires contact a layer of water atop the road rather than the road itself. Since your tires can’t grip the water, your car may swerve out of control.
The best way to avoid hydroplaning is to accelerate slowly to maintain a steady connection with the road. If you feel your vehicle hydroplaning, hold your wheel steady and reduce your speed. Many drivers try to jerk the wheel to go against the direction they’re skidding, but this can do more harm than good.
Potholes
Potholes are regular annoyances, especially on poorly maintained roads. A pothole is a small dip in the road that’s typically caused by water erosion or from constant exposure to rough driving from vehicles.
The problem with potholes is that it can be difficult to gauge their depth. If your vehicle sustains damage from a pothole, you’ll have to get it repaired as soon as possible. If you see a crater in the road, slow down to go over it or navigate around it altogether.
Thick Fog
Fog is the result of moisture in the air condensing due to temperature changes. It can be very difficult to see in thick fog and dangerous to drive. One way to deal with this road hazard is to drive slowly and steadily. Avoid changing lanes unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Many drivers may turn on their high beams, thinking that the extra light will make it easier to see. However, the intense light hitting the fog may cause glare and make it even more difficult to see in front of you. We recommend turning on your parking lights so that your rear lights are on and can act as a beacon for drivers behind you. If everyone has their lights on, it reduces the chances of a collision.
