The climate is changing throughout the world, and extraordinary weather conditions are being seen. Record-breaking heatwaves, devastating floods, wildfires, hurricanes, and tornadoes are occurring.
Autumn is well and truly upon us, and this month, we have some useful tips for driving in windy conditions. Please take great care wherever you are driving.
Stay safe when driving in windy conditions. Strong gusts of wind can impact your vehicle’s handling, making it difficult to maintain control. Understanding how to navigate in these conditions is essential.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Wind is very unpredictable, and gusts come out of nowhere, which is especially dangerous if you are travelling in open areas, around bridges, or exiting a tunnel. Look out for signs such as swaying trees, flying debris, or other vehicles, such as high-sided articulated lorries. Being aware is your first line of defence.
Grip your wheel
When your vehicle is being battered, grip the wheel firmly with both hands! Keep your vehicle steady, especially when driving on motorways or in very exposed areas.
Slow down
Driving at speed increases the risk of losing control of your vehicle in windy conditions. Slowing down gives you more time to react, which helps reduce the likelihood of being blown off course. If you need to overtake, keep a moderate speed—remember that larger vehicles create additional wind turbulence.
High-sided vehicles
Due to their size and weight, larger vehicles such as trucks, vans, and SUVs are susceptible to strong winds. This applies to trailers and caravans, too. Give them extra space. In windy conditions, they are likely to drift or swerve.
Drive steadily
Abrupt actions such as turning sharply, switching lanes, or sudden braking can cause you to lose control if the wind is pushing hard against your vehicle. Keeping your driving movements smooth and gradual will help stabilise your vehicle.
Debris
Leaves, branches, and rubbish will fly about in windy conditions. If you see something in the road, either slow down and safely navigate around it or, where safe, remove the obstruction to assist fellow drivers.
Safe Distance
Wind can affect not only your car but also the vehicles around you. To give yourself more time to react to sudden changes, maintain a greater following distance than usual. If the car in front of you is blown off course or has to stop quickly, this extra space can help prevent an accident.
Use your headlights
Visibility can be compromised in windy weather due to blowing dust or debris. Turn on your headlights to ensure other drivers can see you, even during the day. This simple step can improve your visibility and safety on the road.
Plan Your Route
If possible, avoid driving in especially windy conditions, especially if you’re heading through open areas, mountain passes, or near the coast, where winds are typically stronger. Check the weather forecast before setting out, and if the winds are too strong, consider delaying your trip.
Pull Over
If the wind becomes too strong and you’re struggling to maintain control, don’t hesitate to pull over in a safe location. It’s better to wait out the worst of the wind than to risk an accident. Find a spot off the main road, like a parking area or service station, where you can safely park until conditions improve.
Windy conditions may not always seem like a significant threat, but they can quickly turn dangerous on the road. By staying alert, reducing speed, and maintaining control, you can minimise the risks and arrive at your destination safely.
Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and pull over if the winds become too strong.
Stay safe out there, and if it’s windy, drive with care. From all the team at A1 Clutches, we wish you safe and happy driving.