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Friday, March 29, 2024

Storm, strong wind, hurricane on the road. How should you drive?

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Weather events such as storms or even strong gusts of wind are very dangerous for road users. The driver then runs the risk of losing control of the car, flying off the road, and in extreme cases, his car can literally be driven off the road. What should you pay special attention to?

The current weather is associated not only with lower temperatures, but also with the possibility of gusty winds. When wind speeds reach significant levels, drivers have to take into account greater or lesser difficulties on the road. In some cases, during a thunderstorm, a car is crushed by a falling tree or the road is blocked by scattered branches or objects, such as parts of structures, scaffolding, banners and billboards. Can we prepare for driving in such conditions?

Before it starts blowing hard

If we are in areas with gusty wind warnings, we should first consider postponing travel until the weather improves. Even if the weather is calm, let’s not ignore the forecasts, remembering that a storm can move quickly and we cannot predict all its consequences. Driving in such circumstances can be dangerous and put our health and lives at risk. Therefore, before planning your trip, listen carefully to local media reports about the weather forecast.

If you have to leave

However, it is not always possible to refuse to travel when there is strong wind or we may be surprised by a sudden change in weather conditions. If possible, when planning a route, choose a safer one, choosing areas away from trees. Also, do not stop or park near trees, utility poles, electric poles, billboards, or scaffolding.

Strong gusts of wind, especially from the side of the vehicle and in open areas, can make driving a vehicle very difficult. Losing control of the vehicle is especially dangerous on busy roads or where drivers can reach higher speeds, such as on expressways and highways. So first of all, let’s take our foot off the gas pedal and hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands. Let’s maintain an appropriate safe distance from other vehicles, especially when following a truck. Let’s also beware of sudden gusts of wind when overtaking such a vehicle.

– Reducing your speed may increase the number of seconds it takes to respond when conditions suddenly change without warning and the wind throws an object or branch into the road. You should also be more vigilant when driving between buildings, roads covered with screens or trees. In such situations, strong gusts of wind can be especially treacherous and cause even more trouble for drivers. However, when the wind puts a lot of pressure on the rear of the car, it is necessary to take into account the lengthening of the braking distance – says Adam Bernard, Director of the Renault Safe Driving School.

When it is very windy, we as pedestrians also need to be careful. When we are near the road or crossing a crossing, a sudden gust of wind can even push us into the road in front of an oncoming vehicle.

After the storm has passed

It is important that when driving out after the situation has calmed down a bit, we are aware of the possible difficulties while driving. After extreme weather conditions pass, road users may still have to deal with the effects of the storm, such as uprooted trees, branches lying on roads, and even fallen utility poles. All this can complicate the crossing or completely block it. We should also avoid places where we see electrical wires lying or hanging. You should also always obey any signs that close the road to traffic or indicate a detour.

Designed by: Marcin Klimkowski
Source: SBZHR
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Source: Wprost

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