Although it may
not look like it, spring is quickly approaching and with that brings the
chances for storms and dangerous travel condition. Severe weather can strike at
any moment. If you must drive through storms, know the safety tips required to
reach your destination safely.
Be Prepared:
The bottom line
when driving during severe weather is to be prepared for anything. Before you
travel check the weather forecast of your entire route.
If you see
darkening skies tune into a local radio station or have your passengers look up
the weather on their devices. It can be a good idea to be aware of locations
where you can take a break from driving. Gas stations, restaurants, libraries
and shopping centers are good examples.
Driving in Rain:
Wipers on. Headlights on: This is Kansas law. Protect yourself and
others around you. Headlights help increase the chances that you will be seen
by other drivers.
Turn on Wipers and Keep Windows Clear: This may be a no-brainer, but a
surprising number of people drive with windshield wipers that aren’t at their
peak performance. It is suggested to get them replaced every 6-12 months. Use
your de-frost function or air conditioner to keep your windows clear of fog.
Be Patient:
Take it slower than usual and give extra room to the drivers around you.
Wet roads could cause your vehicle to hydroplane or lose traction.
Turn Around Don’t Drown: During severe weather, flash floods may
occur. Never try to cross a flooded road way. The water may be deeper than you
think and it is dangerous to try to drive over it. Find an alternate route. It
only takes a few inches for the current to take you and your vehicle for an
unwanted ride. Abandon your vehicle if
it stalls and seek higher ground.
Turn off Cruise Control: Road conditions during severe weather are
inconsistent. You need to be in control, not your vehicle.
Driving during a hailstorm:
Driving during a hailstorm:
Take shelter: Don’t
leave your vehicle unless you can get inside quickly. The hailstones could
cause injury. If you are near an
underpass or bridge it is safe to wait out the hail.
Pull over: if you are not near any shelter, stay in your
vehicle and pull to side of the road.
Driving During High Winds:
Driving During High Winds:
Watch for Flying Debris: High winds can pick up items that become
dangerous weapons if they should hit your or your vehicle.
Be prepared for wind gusts: If you drive a high profile vehicle such
as an SUV, bus, or semi truck, you have a higher risk of being affected by high
wind gusts. Consider not traveling in these vehicles if you can avoid it.
Driving During a Tornado:
This one is easy: Don’t. Never try to outrun a tornado, and don’t drive during
one either. Get out of your car and find
shelter. If none can be found, get below the road’s surface and cover your
head. A ditch or low area is suggested. Be aware of the water level around you
and be on the lookout for flash floods. Never seek shelter in an underpass.
In every
weather situation it is best to buckle up - every trip, every time - and pay
attention to your environment.
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