Don’t fall victim to unforeseen obstacles
No matter how long you’ve been driving, everyone eventually encounters a road hazard at some point. When you come across an unsafe road condition, it helps to be prepared for the unexpected. To help you learn how to safely deal with road hazards, our expert dealers here at Jeff D’Ambrosio Chrysler Dodge Jeep® RAM have gathered our best tips and tricks for anticipating common dangers on the road.
Types of Road Hazards and How to Deal With Them
Children or Animals
If you frequently drive in residential areas, you’re most likely always on the lookout for pedestrians. It’s especially important to keep an eye out for children and pets playing close to the road, especially if you’re driving near a school zone or playground. Make sure to use caution when you see children or animals alongside the road and always be prepared to stop if you need to, in case one wanders into the road. Slow down and stay alert, as children and animals can be unpredictable and may suddenly dart into your path. Also, be extra vigilant during early mornings and evenings when visibility is reduced. It’s also wise to drive slowly when passing through neighborhoods, parks, or any area where children and pets are likely to be active.
Slick Road Conditions
Streets can be negatively affected by the weather, especially during a rain or snowstorm. If you’re ever caught driving in a storm, make sure you go as slow as possible so you remain in control and your wheels don’t skid on slick pavement. If you start to skid, take your foot off the gas and steer your vehicle towards a safe spot away from traffic.
Most importantly, remember to never slam on your brakes if you start to skid, as this can cause your vehicle to spin out of control. Use gentle steering corrections and aim to regain traction gradually. Additionally, ensuring your tires are in good condition with proper tread depth can significantly reduce the risk of skidding. Always check weather forecasts before heading out and consider delaying your trip if conditions are particularly hazardous.
Debris on the Road
Road debris can range from small objects like rocks and branches to larger hazards such as tire treads or even furniture. Always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you so you have ample time to react to any debris on the road. If you spot debris, try to safely maneuver around it.
Avoid swerving abruptly, as this can lead to a loss of control or a collision with another vehicle. If the debris is large or poses a significant danger, pull over safely and report it to local authorities. In some areas, roadside assistance services can help remove debris to prevent accidents. Staying vigilant and scanning the road ahead can help you spot and avoid debris in time.
Construction Zones
Construction zones often present multiple hazards, including uneven pavement, narrow lanes, and unexpected stops. When you approach a construction zone, reduce your speed and follow all posted signs and signals. Be aware of construction workers and equipment that may be close to traffic lanes. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and be prepared for sudden stops.
Remember that fines for traffic violations in construction zones are often doubled, so it’s in your best interest to drive carefully. Pay attention to any changes in traffic patterns and be patient, as delays are common in construction areas. Always follow the instructions of any flaggers or traffic control personnel on site.
Foggy Conditions
Fog can severely limit your visibility and make driving extremely dangerous. If you find yourself driving in fog, despite what you may think you will want to use your low-beam headlights or fog lights, as high beams can reflect off the fog and reduce visibility even further. Maintain a safe following distance, drive at a reduced speed, and use road markings to help guide you. If the fog is too dense, consider pulling over to a safe location and waiting for conditions to improve. It’s also helpful to use your windshield wipers and defrosters to keep your view as clear as possible. When driving in fog, stay particularly alert for other vehicles that may not have their lights on and be cautious at intersections and crosswalks.
Potholes
Potholes are a common road hazard (especially in Pennsylvania) that can cause significant damage to your vehicle, and no one wants to deal with that. When driving, keep an eye out for potholes, especially after heavy rains or during the spring thaw. If you see a pothole and can’t avoid it, slow down as much as possible before impact.
Hitting a pothole at high speed can cause tire damage, alignment issues, and other costly repairs. Regularly inspecting your tires and suspension can help mitigate some of the damage caused by potholes. If you notice any unusual vibrations or noises after hitting a pothole, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle checked by a professional.
Night Driving
Driving at night can be challenging due to reduced visibility and the glare from oncoming headlights, which can be increased even more when it is raining or just wet outside. Make sure your headlights are clean and properly aimed to maximize your visibility. Use high beams on dark roads, but be sure to dim them when approaching other vehicles.
Increase your following distance and be extra cautious at intersections and pedestrian crossings. Fatigue is also a significant risk factor at night, so ensure you are well-rested before driving and take breaks if you feel tired.
Want to Learn More Road Hazard Safety Tips?
By expanding on various types of road hazards and offering detailed tips on how to handle them, drivers can feel more confident and prepared to navigate safely through unexpected challenges on the road.
Our Downingtown, PA car dealers have plenty of expert tips to go around, so stop by today to find out more! Don’t forget to check out our wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles when you visit. We hope to see you in our showroom very soon!
Check out Jeff D’Ambrosio’s inventory and see what piques your interest. You can even have your car shipped right to your door!
Also, be sure to check out Jeff D’Ambrosio’s Youtube and Facebook!
Connect with us
