Tips for Driving in Inclement Weather

If you’ve lived in Arkansas long enough, you know that the weather can be unpredictable — to say the least! At McLarty Daniel Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat in Springdale, we’ve seen everything from week-long floods to mountains of snow. More times than not, weather like this can make the roads slick, dangerous, and downright scary. It’s important to know how to deal with inclement weather if you are caught on the road or have to drive in an emergency situation.

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While staying put in bad weather is always the best option, we understand that there are times when it’s unavoidable. In these situations, you can help yourself by preparing beforehand and using proper driving techniques. Follow these tips to navigate the roads safely during less-than-ideal weather.

Ways to Prepare Before You Drive in Bad Weather

1. Plan your route! Check the news, social media, local radio, or another trusted source. Information on road conditions, closures, and evacuation routes can help you stick to the shortest and safest roads.
2. Create an emergency kit! Stock your vehicle with essentials like snacks, blankets, flashlights, and tools in case you get stuck on the road. Rapidly changing weather can catch you off-guard, so it’s always best to be prepared.
3. Make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape! Regularly check your tires, brakes, headlights, and windshield wipers — especially in winter months. And, before departing, be sure that all of your windows are defrosted or cleared of debris for optimal visibility.

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Things to Keep in Mind While Driving in Bad Weather:

1. Drive slowly! This may seem obvious, but taking your time can reduce the chance of an accident dramatically. Slow, steady, thoughtful driving gives you more time to react to potential hazards. Go easy on both your brakes and gas pedal.
2. Avoid cruise control! In snow, ice, slush, or heavy rain, you want to avoid using cruise control. This includes adaptive cruise control and any hands-free driving features. Dangerous road conditions may require immediate intervention, so relying on cruise control is definitely inadvisable.
3. Leave extra room in front of your vehicle! Experts suggest doubling the distance between you and the car in front of you when driving in rain, snow, or sleet. Increased braking time is crucial in inclement weather!
4. Look where you want to go! It helps to look far ahead in bad weather, as you are more likely to spot frozen patches or flooded areas. If you feel your car skidding, it also helps to focus on where you want to go, not where the vehicle is headed at that moment. Use your peripheral vision to guide you and help you regain control.
5. Don’t be afraid to pull over! It’s never a convenient or fun option, but waiting out a storm can sometimes be the safest option. Finding a solid, low-traffic area to pull off the road can be a smart move, especially if the weather has severely compromised your visibility. However, if the weather is predicted to only get worse (like a snowstorm), you may need to press on.

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Driving in inclement weather demands extra caution and preparedness. Whether it’s planning your route, stocking your vehicle, or practicing safe driving habits, taking these precautions can make a significant impact on your safety! At McLarty Daniel Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat in Springdale, Arkansas, we always want our customers to be as safe as possible. We hope these tips will help you navigate the roads confidently, should you need to brave that temperamental Arkansas weather!

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