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Driving Safety: Coming around the mountain...

By Megan Roth

Right now I’m vacationing in California’s sunny palm desert – and it is gorgeous. I mean it - it’s almost surreal. I got up yesterday, threw on a tank top and shorts and went jogging down the stretch of highway in front of our resort. What, you ask, motivated me to go jogging on vacation? The fact that I was running the desert terrain towards snow-capped mountains.

It’s true – the mountains standing above Palm Springs are amazing to look at; yet, despite their beauty, they can be treacherous to drive. In fact, sometimes the roads are so bad they don’t even allow vehicles to drive them (such was the case here on Monday). Other times, the roads are free for travel, but drivers should do so only if they’re fully aware of the risks that exist.

We all know about the laws of gravity; when driving down steep mountain roads, it’s only natural that your car will accelerate on its own. Be aware of this and down-shift before driving into such conditions. It goes without saying that speed limits are posted for a reason but sometimes we sort of ‘fudge’ them for our own convenience. On mountain roads, DON’T (not that I recommend doing this on any road; however, mountain roads are especially dangerous as they often have sharp turns, and little or no shoulder room accompanied by steep drop-offs.

In the event that you should get moving too quickly, don’t slam on your brakes (this can cause loss of control and, in situations where other cars are following you, could result in your being rear-ended and other cars piling up). Instead, brake slowly and hold for approximately three (3) seconds before releasing.

Also, be aware of weather conditions and how they may affect your ability to brake (or see, maintain control, etc). Mountain elevations often come with increased rain and snow (I won’t get into this, but it deals with the barometric pressure and the atmosphere’s ability to hold/maintain moisture). It’s important for drivers to adjust to such weather conditions accordingly; drive with your headlights on (even during the daylight) to increase not only your visibility, but also to increase others odds of seeing you. If rain is coming down in sheets, it’s probably best to pull over and wait until visibility improves. If roads are wiped out by snow, don’t even attempt navigating them; if they’re even slightly dusted, utilize tire chains to maximize traction and lessen the need for constant braking.

And don’t feel bad if you do have to use your brakes. No, I’m not contradicting myself; I’m referring to egotistical, competitive drivers. Often times, drivers get defensive when it comes to someone riding their back bumper or trying to pass them. Don’t. Instead, pull over the first chance you get and let them pass. If they want to drive like a maniac, that’s their choice; just don’t let it adversely affect the way you drive.

A few other precautionary measures? When going on a trip to/through the mountains, always check your tire pressure and gauges to make sure things are in proper order. Always head into the mountains with a full tank of gas (often times there are multiple towns and villages scattered throughout the mountains; however, better safe than sorry – you don’t know how long it will be before you come across the next gas station). And as a final safety measure, travel with extra clothes, a blanket and a few snacks in your trunk (granola bars, water, etc. – easy stuff that won’t go bad right away). I’m not saying to plan on breaking down or ended up stranded in the mountains, but you may want to be prepared just in case…

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Megan Roth

Full post as published by Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer on February 14, 2009 (boomark / email).