Stay safe when driving in Colorado high winds with these tips

Driving-safely-in-Colorado-high-winds

Navigating Windy Colorado Roads

As winter begins to turn into spring, Colorado high winds also morph from an occasional inconvenience into a driving hazard. With Colorado winds averaging higher speeds during the months of January, February, and March, it’s important for motorists to adjust their driving technique to stay safe on the road. Below are some tips to help you drive safely in Colorado high wind conditions—and if you need more information on vehicle safety or Colorado auto repair, visit one of our convenient AAMCO locations.

 

What to Do When You Encounter High Winds.

A particularly eerie experience is when you can feel the wind actually buffeting and moving your car as you drive. This is dangerous for obvious reasons—if you don’t have a firm grip on the wheel, your vehicle could be pushed onto a shoulder or into oncoming traffic. If the roads are icy or snowy, the risks are greater: even a small nudge to your car could push you onto a slippery patch that could cause you to lose control. To combat this, drive with both hands on the wheel at all times, and pay attention to what the wind is doing outside your car.

If you are driving a high-clearance vehicle, you need to be extra-aware of high winds. Because your vehicle has a higher center of gravity, it’s more likely to tip over in the best of circumstances—but throw unexpected gusts of wind into the mix, and the situation quickly becomes even more dangerous. Take extreme caution when rounding curves, especially if strong winds are present. Those driving trucks, buses, recreational vehicles, campers, and drivers towing trailers are at a higher risk and should exercise additional safety precautions.

 

Conditions At High Altitude.

Those living at higher altitudes—such as 5,000 ft. and higher—should be prepared for even higher winds than their lower-altitude counterparts. Living and commuting from higher elevations often comes with the additional considerations of more dangerous weather and longer driving time, so staying on top of the weather and driving slowly and attentively are even more important.

 

Other Things You Should Know

Another easily-overlooked problem high winds can bring is blowing up standing snow or debris. Even if the last snow was days earlier and the day is clear and sunny, high gusts can quickly obscure your view by blowing snow, dust, or other objects into the road. This is particularly dangerous because of how suddenly and unexpectedly it can occur—while you are on a curve, for example, or while you’re attempting to pass another vehicle. Stay vigilant and be prepared to quickly slow down if snow or debris suddenly clouds the road.

 

We Are Here to Help!

As always, make sure your vehicle is up to date with any maintenance checks or repairs. It’s especially important to stay on top of this during the winter and spring months, when Colorado driving conditions can be treacherous. Visit us online and find more resources on Colorado auto repair and a Colorado vehicle maintenance location that’s convenient for you.

Keep these pointers in mind when you head out to drive on Colorado winter roads. For more driving safety tips, or to find a Colorado radiator repair or AAMCO transmission mechanic near you, go to www.aamcocolorado.com. Those who know, go to AAMCO!

 

Loading...

Schedule an Appointment

BOOK NOW

The information contained in this website, or any of our content, videos, and publications is for general information purposes only. Learn more about our information disclaimer »