Types Of Hazards Common On Rough Roads
If you’ve ever driven on a rough road, you know that it can be a bit of a bumpy ride. But did you know that there are actually several types of hazards that can occur on these roads? In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of hazards that are common on rough roads.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Driving your vehicle in hazardous conditions, such as snow, heavy rain, or thick fog, requires preparation, practice, and caution. And just because it is not a blizzard does not mean conditions are not hazardous.
- With the oils and exhaust that accumulate on highways, only a small amount of precipitation can cause the roadway to become slick, especially if it has not rained in a long time.
- A fog bank or dust storm can suddenly reduce your visibility to zero.
- Other hazardous conditions drivers may encounter, such as strong winds that down tree limbs or power lines, require extra caution from motorists.
Below are more examples of hazardous road conditions you may encounter.
- Fixed objects on the road: Examples include utility poles, fallen trees, uncovered water drains, etc.
- Isolated spots of ice: These slick, frozen surfaces can make you spin or slide. Puddles of water can freeze to create this hazard.
- Dangerous intersections: Intersections on narrow roads or around sharp turns prevent you from seeing oncoming vehicles.
- Oil on the road: This can get slippery and dangerous.
- Poor guidelines: Over time, painted lines become worn and hard to see.
- Shoulder Drop-Off: If the space to the right of the road past the solid white line drops more than two inches from the road’s surface, it can cause an accident.
- “Slippery When Wet” roads: These roads are proven to be slick and unsafe when wet.
- Wheel Ruts: Grooves where studded snow tires often dig into the road and make it uneven and unsafe.
- Work Zones: There can be confusing directional signs and unpredictable changes in work zones. Go Slow!
Potholes: Roads where asphalt has been removed create holes that can damage tires, make cars swerve, and cause collisions.
It is important to keep an eye out for these types of road hazards while you are driving. Be prepared, use caution, and follow the rules of the road to keep yourself and others safe on your journey. If you encounter any hazardous conditions, slow down, pay attention, and take extra care. Remember: safety first!
