With the current weather conditions being what they are, it is always a good idea to think about safety, especially on the road.
Here are a few tips you can follow to stay safe while braving the wind:
1. Avoid speeding: Besides being against the law, going faster than the stated speed limit (contrary to popular belief) will not help you diminish the effects of heavy wind gusts.
If anything, you should lower your rate of speed so that you have more control of the vehicle and can adjust the steering wheel if you feel the car moving to one side or the other.
Especially in areas where the wind is particularly bad.
2. Watch out for obstructions: If you’re in a wooded area and the wind has picked up, be very careful of falling objects like downed tree branches, twigs or tree limbs.
These are more susceptible to breaking and could enter the path where you’re driving.
Also try to watch out for objects that are easily picked up in the wind and can hit your car, such as rubbish.
3. Be alert: Some vehicles are more susceptible to high wind gusts than others.
Especially if you’re on the highway, make sure you remain either ahead or behind these big rigs to avoid a potential accident should it veer into your lane.
Read also: Weather Warning: Cold and rainy conditions predicted for Ladysmith
Also read: Warning: Motorists are urged to be cautious, as high winds are experienced in Ladysmith
4. Keep both hands on the wheel: It’s always a good idea to drive with both hands on the wheel, but it’s particularly important when it’s windy out.
When the wind blows, you can feel the car shifting one way or the other and with only one hand on the wheel, you risk veering into an oncoming lane. So it’s a good idea to keep both hands on the wheel, not only in windy conditions but at all times.
5. Park in an open area: Hopefully, by the time you get to your destination, the winds will have died down. But if they’re still forceful, ensure that you park someplace that’s a distance away from nearby trees, power lines or other standing structures.
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