Hold on to those hats … and steering wheels! Southern Nevada has recently experienced extreme winds. This is a great time to brush up on safety tips to make sure everyone on the road makes it home safe.
According to the National Weather Service, the ideal place to be when winds pick up is indoors. If you’re outside, find the nearest building as soon as possible to avoid being impacted by falling debris.
If you happen to be behind the wheel during high winds, follow these tips for maximum road safety:
- Keep BOTH hands on the wheel
Firmly grasping the steering wheel allows you to take stronger control of your car, especially if you are driving a high-profile vehicle.
- Maintain a safe distance from cars in adjacent lanes
Strong gusts of wind can jolt your car to the side, bumping you out of your travel lane. Avoid hitting other vehicles by maintaining a safe distance at all times.
- Pull over if conditions become too severe
The best thing to do to ensure your safety is to pull over on the side of the road and wait until conditions improve. Make sure to choose a spot that is away from trees or power lines. If you can’t pull off the road, proceed at a speed suitable for visibility, turn on your headlights and sound your horn occasionally.
- Turn your headlights on
Strong gusts of wind usually pick up debris and dust, making it difficult to see clearly. Turn on your headlights to improve your visibility and help other drivers see you on the road.
- Accommodate proper time for your commute
It’s always a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination – especially when gusts kick up. Strong winds and rain increase the likelihood of road safety accidents.
- Treat dark traffic signals as an all-way stop
If you’re driving through a power outage and come across out-of-order traffic lights at an intersection, don’t fret! Just proceed as you would at an all-way stop
For more high wind safety tips, click here.
