Fog, rain, and winter, as well as work zones and curves, are all road conditions that require drivers to exercise extra caution. In Ohio, these conditions are ever present, making it crucial to review safe driving tips regardless of your experience level. In this article, we’ll guide you through the different Ohio road conditions and provide safety tips for each one, along with tips for preparing for these events. Let’s get started.
How to Drive Safely through Fog
Fog can occur at any time of day, greatly reducing visibility. Here are some safety tips:
- Follow the speed of traffic to avoid accidents.
- Use low-beam headlights and avoid using high-beam headlights.
- Install fog lights before heading out to improve visibility in foggy conditions.
- Regularly check all sides and the rear of your vehicle for other vehicles and pedestrians.
- If you can’t move your car to the side after a collision, leave the vehicle, turn on flashers and lights, and consider setting up flares in thick fog.
How to Drive Safely in Winter
Winter driving requires caution due to low visibility and slippery roads. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Switch to winter tires if expecting thick snow for better grip.
- Check brakes and tires before leaving the house.
- Prepare an emergency kit in your car, including a blanket, shovel, flashlight, batteries, water, snacks, and first aid supplies.
- Remove snow from your windshield and windows.
- Exercise extra caution on bridges, overpasses, and shaded spots due to icy conditions.
- If your vehicle starts to skid, lift your foot off the gas pedal and steer in the desired direction without panicking.
- Brake slowly without suddenly slamming on the brakes.
How to Drive Safely through Floods
Whether expected or unexpected, floods require careful navigation. Here’s what to do:
- Avoid entering flooded roads if unsure of the water depth.
- Estimate flood depth using a post or wall and proceed cautiously if only a few inches deep.
- Drive slowly and steadily, avoiding sharp turns.
- Turn around if the water level exceeds half the height of your tires.
How to Drive Safely through Work Zones
Work zones are marked by orange signs indicating temporary construction or maintenance. Here’s what to do:
- Follow the signs or a traffic enforcer for directions.
- Avoid work zones if possible by seeking alternate routes.
- Pay attention to workers and pedestrians in the work zone area.
- Stay away from barricades and take turns when merging traffic.
How to Drive Safely through Curves
Maneuvering curves requires staying in your lane while avoiding the curb. Here are some tips:
- Ease off the gas and gently apply the brakes when entering a curve.
- Check for oncoming traffic and stay in your lane.
- Pay attention to road signs warning of curvy roads ahead.
- Expect oncoming traffic and steer slowly into the curve.
How to Drive Safely at Night
Driving at night poses similar visibility challenges as fog and winter conditions. Follow these safety precautions:
- Turn headlights on between sunset and sunrise.
- Use high-beam headlights when no other vehicles are present, but dim them when approaching traffic.
- Reduce speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Avoid wearing colored lenses at night.
- Dim dashboard screens to reduce glare and be aware of road signs.
Conclusion
Observe these safe driving tips for various Ohio road conditions. If you lack confidence in driving under these conditions, consider staying home or having someone else drive. Always remain alert, patient, and responsible behind the wheel.
Always be a safe and responsible driver!