Poor-Weather Driving Safety Guide: Hidden Dangers & Maintenance Checklist

Australia's diverse weather can transform our roads in an instant. From torrential downpours to icy mornings, these changes create hidden dangers for even the most experienced drivers. This can lead to a stressful situation – you need to get where you're going, but you also want to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Hence, through this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and resources to drive safely in poor weather. We'll explore the hidden dangers lurking on wet roads, snowy mountains, and foggy highways, not to mention the legal considerations surrounding accidents in adverse weather, and how proper car maintenance can minimize risks.

Poor Weather Conditions & Their Dangerous Impacts on Driving

Reduced Visibility

In a heavy rain, your headlights become overwhelming blurs, and the constant spray from passing vehicles creates a watery haze. This significantly reduces your ability to see potential hazards like pedestrians, merging vehicles, or road signs. Also, reduced contrast adds another layer of danger. Pavement that was clearly defined moments ago becomes indistinguishable from the surrounding environment, making it difficult to gauge lane positions and upcoming turns.

Fog creates a disorienting blanket, obscuring the road ahead and making it impossible to judge distances accurately. Suddenly appearing obstacles, like stopped cars or sharp curves, become invisible threats lurking just beyond the veil of fog. This lack of visibility makes timely braking and maneuvering nearly impossible.

Blinding whiteouts from snowy weather can reduce visibility to a mere few feet, essentially leaving you driving blind. Even in less severe snowfalls, obscured lane markings combined with the deceptive sheen of ice-covered roads create a treacherous landscape.

Slippery Roads

The initial moments after rain begins are particularly dangerous. Oil and other contaminants on the road surface mix with water, creating a slick, treacherous film. This is where hydroplaning becomes a real possibility. Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road surface, causing your car to skim uncontrollably on a layer of water.

After the initial downpour, wet roads significantly reduce your stopping distance. This necessitates extra caution and increased following distances to compensate for the longer time it takes to bring your vehicle to a complete stop.‍

Another factor that causes roads to become slippery is black ice - a nearly invisible layer of ice on the road surface that lurks in shaded areas and poses a constant threat. Even the slightest touch can send your vehicle into a spin, causing a loss of control and a potential accident. Packed snow and slush further reduce traction, making braking and maneuvering a delicate dance on the edge of danger.

Steering Difficulty

Especially for larger vehicles like trucks and motorcycles, strong winds can act like an unseen hand, pushing you off course and making steering corrections a constant battle. Even smaller cars can be buffeted and destabilized, creating a stressful and unpredictable driving experience.

Besides, high winds often wreak havoc, sending branches, leaves, and even larger objects flying onto the road. These unpredictable hazards can cause collisions or sudden swerving maneuvers, putting both you and other drivers at risk.

Other Situational Hazards

When it comes to floodwater, never underestimate the hidden dangers like potholes, debris, and even submerged vehicles. Attempting to drive through floodwaters not only risks your car being swept away but also poses a serious safety threat to yourself and others. Don't attempt to drive through flooded areas unless absolutely necessary. If you encounter floodwaters, turn around and find an alternative route.

Finally, these aftermaths of severe weather can block roads, create unexpected obstacles, and pose potential electrical hazards. Treat downed power lines as if they are live, and never attempt to drive over or move them yourself.

Vehicle Maintenance Checklist for Different Types of Weather

a. Cold & Snowy Weather

• ‍Tires: Legally, most regions mandate a minimum tread depth for tire safety. In winter, consider exceeding that minimum with winter tires specifically designed for snowy and icy conditions. Their deeper treads and softer rubber compound significantly enhance grip, potentially preventing accidents and saving you from legal trouble.‍
  • Tire Pressure and Winter Temperatures: As temperatures plummet, so does tire pressure. Underinflated tires lose traction, increasing your risk of skidding and accidents. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations, especially before winter road trips. ‍
  • Spare Tire & Tire Chains: Don't get stranded! Ensure your spare tire is properly inflated and readily accessible. In some regions, using tire chains is legal or even mandatory on specific roads during winter storms. Familiarize yourself with local regulations and carry tire chains if necessary. ‍
• Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid: Worn-out wiper blades leave streaks and impair visibility, a major safety hazard in winter. Replace them regularly, and keep your washer fluid reservoir topped up with a winter-specific formula that won't freeze. ‍
• Headlights & Brake Lights: Ensure all your headlights, taillights, and brake lights function properly. They are your eyes and signals on the road, crucial for safe driving in winter's low-light conditions. ‍
• De-icing: Don't just clear your windshield; remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, and headlights for optimal visibility. Utilize proper de-icing tools and techniques to ensure a clear view of your surroundings.‍
• Battery and Electrical System: Cold temperatures sap battery life. Get your battery tested before winter and replace it if needed. A dead battery on a deserted road can be more than an inconvenience; it can be a safety hazard. ‍
  • Battery Testing & Replacement: Ignoring warning signs like slow engine cranks or dim lights can leave you stranded. Schedule regular battery checks and don't hesitate to replace it when necessary. ‍
  • Jumper Cables & Emergency Assistance: Be prepared! Carry jumper cables in good condition and familiarize yourself with their use. Knowing how to jumpstart your car can save you time and hassle in an emergency. ‍
• Brakes and Fluids: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they function optimally. Worn-out brakes can significantly increase stopping distances on slippery roads, potentially leading to accidents with legal consequences.‍
  • Checking Brake Fluid Level and Condition: Low or contaminated fluid compromises braking performance, putting you at risk. Ignoring this crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance could be seen as negligence in the event of an accident.‍
  • Antifreeze and Coolant Levels: Antifreeze protects your engine from freezing in cold temperatures, while coolant regulates its operating temperature. Ensure both are at proper levels throughout winter to avoid engine damage that could leave you stranded or even cause an accident due to mechanical failure.

b. Rainy Weather (with Flood)

• Tire Tread & Pressure: Inspect your tires for sufficient tread depth (consult your car's manual for the recommended minimum) and proper air pressure. Uneven wear or incorrect pressure can significantly impact handling on wet roads. Consider investing in a pressure gauge for regular monitoring.
• Wiper Blades: Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition. Cracked, worn, or streaking blades compromise visibility during heavy downpours. Replace them if necessary for optimal clearing of rain and debris.
• Lights: Verify all your vehicle's lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals, are functioning properly. Improved visibility is crucial in low-light conditions often associated with heavy rain.
• Battery: A weak battery can struggle to start your car, especially in wet weather. If your battery is nearing its lifespan (typically 3-5 years), consider having it tested and replaced if needed.
• Brakes: Brakes are paramount for safe driving, especially during rainy weather. Ensure they function smoothly and without any unusual noises. If you suspect any issues, schedule a brake inspection with a trusted mechanic.
• Fluid Levels: Check all vital fluid levels, including engine oil, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Maintaining proper fluid levels is essential for optimal vehicle performance. Top up any fluids that are low.‍
• Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit to store in your car. This should include items like a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food and bottled water, a blanket, a phone charger, and a roadside assistance kit (including a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench).

Additional recommendations:

• Clear Air Vents & Drains: Locate and clear any debris from your vehicle's air vents and sunroof drains to prevent water from accumulating inside. Clogged drains can lead to leaks and potential electrical issues.‍
• Secure Loose Objects: Remove or secure any loose items inside your car that could become projectiles during strong winds or sudden stops. This includes items in the trunk, glove compartment, and on the dashboard.‍
• Park Strategically: If possible, park your vehicle in a safe location away from trees, low-lying areas prone to flooding, or unsecured objects that could become airborne in high winds. An enclosed garage is ideal.

‍c. Foggy Weather

• Wiper Blades: These are your front-line defense against a foggy windshield. Replace worn or cracked wiper blades that streak or skip. Opt for high-quality blades designed for your specific vehicle to ensure optimal contact and clearing. Consider winter wiper blades if you live in areas prone to freezing fog.
• Headlights & Taillights: Fog can dramatically reduce the effectiveness of your lights. Inspect all headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals for functionality and proper brightness. A dim bulb can be the difference between being seen and being invisible. Clean any grime or debris from headlight lenses to maximize light output.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Top up your windshield washer fluid reservoir with a high-quality, winterized blend. This ensures the fluid doesn't freeze and remains effective at clearing fog and road grime.
• ‍Air Conditioning & Defroster: Modern vehicles come equipped with defroster systems that can quickly clear fog from your windshield. Understand your car's climate control system and familiarize yourself with the defrost function. In some vehicles, setting the temperature to cool can help reduce fogging by drawing moisture out of the cabin air.

Additional recommendations:

• Reduce Speed: Posted speed limits are meant for ideal conditions. Fog drastically reduces visibility, so slow down significantly. Allow extra following distance between you and the car ahead.
• Use Low-Beam Headlights: High beams can reflect off fog particles and create a glare that further reduces visibility. Opt for low-beam headlights to illuminate the road without blinding yourself or oncoming traffic.
• Fog Lights (if equipped): Some vehicles have fog lights specifically designed to penetrate fog. If your car has them, consult your owner's manual on proper usage. Fog lights typically illuminate the road near the edge of the pavement, helping you stay within your lane.
• Minimize Distractions: Put down your phone and avoid activities that take your eyes off the road. Focus on maintaining lane position and be prepared to react slowly and smoothly to any hazards that may appear.