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Auto Insurance Driving Tips: Wise Wind Tactics

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When most drivers think about practicing caution in inclement weather, the thought of high winds doesn’t cross their minds. In reality, high winds can be just as dangerous to drive in as rain, snow or ice. Following these tips for handling your vehicle in strong gusts can help keep you and your passengers safe, while keeping car insurance rates low by avoiding accidents.

Use Extra Caution

As with any serious weather conditions, you should always use extra caution when driving in high velocity winds. Not only for your own car, but also granting a lot of extra space to others on the road, particularly those in higher-profile vehicles or towing trailers. Wind can mean compromising the amount of control you have over your car, so it’s best to be very vigilant and avoid distractions like listening to music or talking on your cell phone.

Also, practice extra caution when navigating. Don’t follow other vehicles too closely, or pull in front of them too rapidly. The pressure the winds exert on moving vehicles can change the way your car handles, and lead to unexpected consequences.

Slow Down

Although the posted speed limits should always be used as a guide, remember that those speeds are intended for safe driving under perfect road and weather conditions. When weather does kick up, don’t continue at high speeds; instead, slow down a bit to give yourself more reaction time. If the wind is strong enough to push your car out of its lane or otherwise off-course, you won’t have enough time to make a correction if you’re already traveling at very high speeds.

Know Your Car

Many drivers prefer larger cars for multiple reasons: they have more cargo space, can hold more passengers and just feel safer on the road. One place where larger cars are far less safe is on any road being buffeted by high winds. Larger vehicles have more surface area for the wind to push against, causing the vehicle to be shoved around on the road. If you’re starting out on a trip in a van or SUV, know that the build of your vehicle makes you more susceptible to the dangers of driving in high winds.

Be Prepared

It only takes one accident to hike up your auto insurance rates, so it pays to be prepared on the roads. One hazard of high winds that drivers rarely consider is the possibility of reduced visibility and the increased chances of road debris. Even if there isn’t any rain along with the wind, those gusts are kicking up dust and dirt, making the road ahead (and any traffic) very hard to see clearly. High winds will also blow all kinds of things into your path, from tumbleweed to tree branches and any other garbage that’s lying around. Again, drive cautiously and be as braced as possible for the unexpected obstacle to blow in from the shoulder.

By following these tips to stay safe on the road in high winds, you’ll be able to keep your auto insurance rates at a reasonable level, while taking extra care of yourself and your passengers.


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