At Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, there’s nothing we like better than driving a Ford vehicle. When you own a Ford, you understand the thrill of hitting the open road, and when you live in North Idaho, you can’t let sketchy road conditions hold you down, or you’ll never go anywhere.
However, when the journey is not smooth, challenging road conditions can put your driving skills to the test. Whether you’re facing adverse weather, poorly maintained roads, or navigating through rural and dirt paths, safety should always be your top priority. Different conditions call for different driving techniques, so you should take the time to learn these essential techniques if you want to tackle the challenges that may come your way with confidence.
Adverse Weather Conditions
- Rain and Wet Roads: Rain can bring several different types of challenges. When it first rains after a dry period, the roads can become very slick due to oil rising to the surface. Many people also forget to change their driving habits and will drive too fast when the first rain hits. To protect yourself, drive cautiously, increase the following distance to account for longer braking distances, and give yourself time to react if something goes wrong. Ensure your tires have proper tread depth for improved traction, and use headlights to enhance visibility, even during the daytime.
- Snow and Ice: Equip your vehicle with winter tires for better grip; “all-weather” tires are generally insufficient for traction during a North Idaho winter storm. Drive at reduced speeds and avoid sudden movements. Keep safety items in your vehicle, including a car kit, blankets, water, and non-perishable food. As with rain, keep a safe distance from other vehicles to allow for ample braking time.
- Fog: Fog is common in this area, and decreased visibility is always a major safety concern. Many Fords are equipped with fog lights, which direct the light beams down toward the road. Never use high beams in the fog, as they actually inhibit visibility; the light should be directed downward to avoid causing light to reflect off fog droplets into the driver’s eyes.
Newer Fords will not have dedicated fog lights, as the newer adaptive LED lights automatically adjust downward. Reduce your speed and focus on the road ahead; ideally, speed should be gauged so there is sufficient time to come to a complete stop if the driver sees an obstruction in the road. If visibility is severely compromised, it is wisest to pull over to a safe location until conditions improve.
Poor Road Conditions
- Potholes and Uneven Surfaces: Reduce speed when approaching areas with poor road conditions so that you can navigate around holes or other abrupt drops or rises in the road. Your suspension can be damaged from severe jarring, and components in the undercarriage of your car may get bumped by rocks or other obstacles if you have low clearance. Grip your steering wheel firmly to control your vehicle. If you know you may be driving on bad roads, ensure your tires are correctly inflated before your trip.
- Construction Zones: Always obey posted speed limits and be prepared for sudden stops; the warnings are posted for a reason. Stay alert for altered lanes and traffic patterns and follow detour signs. Keep your vehicle a safe distance from construction equipment and any road workers – give them a wide berth and slow your car down.
- Gravel and Dirt Surfaces: Drive at a moderate speed to maintain control on loose surfaces where tires have no solid surface on which to gain traction. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking to prevent skidding. Be cautious of dust clouds, as they can impair visibility. Travel only on marked roads.
- Narrow and Winding Roads: Stay within the posted speed limits and be especially vigilant at blind curves. When on sharp inclines and declines, be sensitive to the capabilities of other vehicles and drivers, and do not tailgate. Move aside for cars or trucks when prudent, and be especially vigilant when driving near large trucks – stay out of their blind spots and give them plenty of room. Use your horn or lights to alert other drivers of your presence, especially on tight turns or where and when visibility is limited. If it is not a divided road, be willing to yield to oncoming traffic and be patient when passing.
- Wildlife Awareness: Be vigilant for wildlife crossing the road, especially in rural areas. Use your high beams at night to spot animals’ eyes reflecting light. Slow down if you see caution signs indicating wildlife crossings.
Your Ford vehicle is designed to handle various road conditions. It has many safety features, but your driving skills and awareness play the most critical role in ensuring a safe journey for you and your family. By following these safe driving tips for challenging road conditions, you protect yourself and your passengers and extend your vehicle’s longevity. Remember, a responsible and prepared driver is the key to conquering any road, no matter how challenging.
To learn more about the safety features of your Ford vehicle and to perform maintenance checks or install better tires, contact Mike White Ford. We’ll make sure your car is road-ready, no matter the road conditions. If you are in the market for a new vehicle, visit one of our showrooms and talk to one of the friendly sales staff members at Mike White Ford.