Five tips for driving in severe weather

Often the best advice our expert mechanics at Al's One Stop Auto can give to motorists about driving in severe weather is simple: Stay at home unless it’s absolutely necessary. Recent examples of how quickly storms can become dangerous are cautionary tales for all of us. If, however, you must drive in conditions that can affect travel, there are some basic precautions that can help.

Here are five recommendations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other sources:

Forewarned is Forearmed: Check road conditions, road closures and traffic warnings before leaving home.

Take it slow: Controlling or stopping a vehicle on slick roads is more difficult. Leave more room than normal between your vehicle and the ones ahead of you. The National Safety Council recommends a minimum three-second following distance in dry weather, so it’s a good idea to double that when roads are wet. 

Avoid flooded roads: Don’t underestimate the amount of water it takes to wash away your vehicle. Twelve inches of rushing water can carry away a car, and 24 inches will have the same effect on an SUV or truck. If you see a flooded road or barriers block the road, turn around. Do not try to drive through it.

Watch for pedestrians and cyclists: Lower visibility during storms or darkness makes it more difficult to spot walkers and riders.

Be prepared: Be sure your cell phone is fully charged and that you’ve packed an emergency roadside kit that includes jumper cables, flares or warning cones, blankets, gloves, drinking water and other necessities in case you’re stranded.

The auto mechanics at Al's One Stop Auto hope you’ll never have to drive in severe weather. But conditions can change quickly, so we make sure that every vehicle that leaves our care has passed our rigorous safety check. If you’d like more information about how to keep your vehicle — and your family — safe on the roads, please contact us today!