How to drive safely while it's windy

Driving in a windy climate can be very dangerous. To ensure your safety at all times, it's crucial that you pay attention to professional driving guidance.

The main thing to remember when the weather is bad is to ask yourself if you really need to go, and only go if there are no other options. High crosswinds can damage a motorcycle's handling, therefore riders should avoid traveling in them in particular.

If the situation becomes too difficult to handle and you have the chance to pull over, do so. If it is safe and permitted, call a relative or friend to let them know that you will be stopping for a bit.

If you must drive, nevertheless, heed the following instructions.

Driving safely in a strong wind

In the event that you must drive in very windy weather, following these top suggestions will offer you the best chance of remaining safe.

1. Pack sensibly

If there's a potential that bad weather will delay your trip or cause a breakdown, it's a good idea to carry supplies before departing. Warm clothing, a fully charged phone, some food, and water are all advised.

2. Pay attention

The last thing you want is to get stopped in a line of traffic because of a road closure you might have avoided, so if you do have to travel, keep an eye out for local news bulletins to stay updated on road closures.

3. Organize your trip.

Before you go, do some research on your intended route to see if there is a more weather-resistant path. If possible, always take a protected route and let people know you're going just in case you get lost or your phone runs out of battery.

4. Take it step by step.

Strong gusts that could catch you off guard can cause high winds to get beneath a car, which can have a big impact on how it handles and brakes. By moving more slowly, you can anticipate these gusts and lessen the effect they have on your driving.

5. Don't expose yourself.

Prepare yourself when approaching because portions of the road that are more exposed will make your vehicles more vulnerable to the impact of unforeseen wind gusts.

6. Be cautious when passing.

When overtaking, high-sided vehicles in particular might be dangerous. Be prepared for this difference in how the vehicle may react while passing huge vehicles because it may suddenly gust from the side as you pass. Only undertake the maneuver if you are certain it is safe and you are ready to do so.

7. Be steadfast

Holding the steering wheel firmly is important. The trick is not to grip too tightly, which may limit your mobility or cause you to jerk the wheel, but to retain a strong grasp so you have as much control over the wheel as possible. Strong winds are not consistent; they are typically gusty and can take you off guard.

8. Give additional space

Give greater space than normal to buses, lorries, cyclists, and motorcyclists in particular. They are easily blown around by side winds.

9. Pay attention.

Observe what is occurring to other vehicles. You can get a heads-up on the weather by observing when and where other cars appear to be being blown off course by the wind.

10. Extended travel

Keep a larger gap between you and the vehicle in front of you; you can think about extending the two-second guideline to three seconds.

11. Park securely

Make sure to park your car in a secure location; stay away from places like telephone poles, buildings, and trees that could potentially collapse in high winds.