As one of our Indiana readers, you know that strong winds have a way of moving into the area without notice. If this happens while you are behind the wheel of your car, it’s important to understand the changes you must make to remain safe.
Wind may not sound like a big deal, but it can definitely impact the way you drive. If you aren’t careful, you could make a mistake that increases the chance of being involved in an accident.
The first thing to remember is this: Always keep two hands on the steering wheel. This will ensure that you have full control of the car, especially if a wind gust strikes.
Secondly, make note of larger vehicles. For example, trucks and buses find it difficult to stay in their lane of travel in strong wind.
Finally, slow down to a safer speed. The faster you are driving the more difficult it is to control your vehicle in strong winds. Even if you have to drive below the speed limit, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
If you aren’t comfortable driving in strong winds, here’s one final bit of advice: Avoid doing so. Unless you absolutely need to drive, stay off the road until the wind dies down.
If you find yourself involved in an accident, your health should always come first. Once you receive treatment, you can then learn more about the cause. For instance, you may have reason to believe that another driver, such as a trucker, caused the accident because they weren’t driving appropriately based on the weather conditions.
Source: Travelers, “How to Drive Safely in Strong Wind and Rain,” accessed Feb. 16, 2017
