Your Matthews North Carolina Toyota Dealer Offers Tips for Driving in High Winds

Mar 2, 2012

Hazardous weather conditions every year are responsible for accidents throughout the state of North Carolina. Driving in conditions like ice and snow covered roads, torrential rain pours and high wind requires extra safety precautions. High winds can cause additional issues like downed trees and power lines. Matthews North Carolina Toyota wants you to drive safe during high wind conditions.

Slow Down

One of the most important things you can do to assure your safety during high winds, is to slow down. High winds can cause you to have difficulty maneuvering your car plus cause downed wires, trees and loose debris. A reduced speed will allow you the extra time to adjust to sudden changes in driving conditions.

Keep Your Hands on the Wheel

Many drivers, especially experienced ones tend to drive just one handed. While it is always important for you to have both hands on the wheel, it is increasingly critical to do so during high winds. A gust of high wind can take you by surprise and many times you will need both hands on the wheel just to keep control of your car.

Stay Alert and Aware of Your Surroundings

If you are on the roadway during high wind conditions it is important to drive with a heightened awareness of your surroundings. High winds are especially dangerous for larger vehicles like tractor trailers due to lack of control. You will want to be extra cautious when driving on the roadways with larger vehicles during windy weather conditions.

Beware Of Slippery Roadways

Finally, high winds are often accompanied by other weather conditions like rain, ice, sleet, black ice, snow or drifting snow. This can cause the added hazard of slippery roads, just another reason to slow down and to stay alert when driving in high wind conditions.