Driving in High Winds
April 5, 2021
Seasonal change can come with high winds. Winter and spring in particular can see very windy periods. Earlier this year, parts of California experienced winds as high as 81 mph. High winds can impact drivers in many ways. They can cause objects to fall into the streets or highways, they can make it difficult to stay in your lane and they can blow dust and debris into the air making it difficult to see. It is imperative to take extra precautions when driving in high winds.
The following are measures you can take when driving in high winds:
- If winds are too severe
-Stop at a safe place and wait until it is safe to drive
-Do not stop where objects can fall onto your vehicle
-Avoid parking near trees, downed power lines, or other tall objects
- Wear a seatbelt at all times
- Keep your eyes moving and understand your surroundings
- Only pass or change lanes when necessary at a safe speed
- Both hands should be on the wheel at all times
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles
- If visibility is impaired by dust, snow, or rain
-Turn on your headlights
-Slow down to a safe speed
-Increase your following distance
- Lightly tap your brakes to alert following traffic of upcoming obstacles
- Listen to the radio to get up-to-date weather conditions
Before driving in severe weather conditions, make sure your vehicle is prepared for adverse weather and recognize the conditions may affect your ability to operate your vehicle safely. The best practice is to avoid driving in extreme weather conditions whenever possible. But if you must drive in extreme conditions, take the necessary precautions to arrive at your destination safely.
