Dealing With Dangerous Curves: Driving Safely
Driving in a straight line is pretty easy. Get a few curves in the road, though, and things can take a dangerous turn quickly — literally.
Curves in the road can really catch a person off guard, especially if they are on an unfamiliar road. Curves can lead to serious accidents, especially if the person is distracted, intoxicated, or fatigued, Speeding is another major issue. Going too fast means you cannot react in time. You may not be able to slow down quickly, causing you to go into the adjacent lane or even off the side of the road.
Here are some tips for curve driving:
- Obey posted speed limits. Don’t speed when near a curve. Be alert and follow all road signs. If there isn’t a speed limit sign near a curve, use good judgment and decrease your speed.
- Stay in your lane. When approaching curves, always scan ahead and stay in your lane. Do not hug the curve too closely. If you’re driving in the inner lane, try not to drift outward or else you may cause an accident.
- Decrease in/accelerate out. Slow down when entering the curve. After the midway point of the curve, speed up a little bit. That way, you can begin to catch up with the posted speed limit. Be sure to straighten the steering wheel as you come out of the curve.
Here are a few other things to keep in mind:
- Turn as little as possible. When approaching a curve, try moving over to the side of your lane that is the opposite of the direction of the curve. So if the curb turns left, move over to the right side of your lane.
- Shifting gears. If you have a manual transmission, never shift gears while in a curve. This will give you better control.
- Passing. Passing while in a curve is never safe. Stay in your lane.
Look for Warning Signs
Generally, a curve won’t come sneaking up on you. You should know that a curve is approaching based on warning signs.
You should see curve and corner warning signs. These signs are usually yellow and indicate that there are unexpected or dangerous curves up ahead. Curve warning signs usually describe the shape of the curve that you are approaching and whether the curve is to the right or to the left. These signs usually post a safe driving speed that is lower than the posted speed limit (such as 20 or 30 miles per hour).
You may also see chevron arrows. These yellow arrow signs are often grouped as a series of three or more signs placed at the actual location of the curve. These signs point the direction of the curve.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Curves in the road can be a lot of fun for sports car drivers, but for those who are not prepared, curves can be a nightmare to navigate, especially in inclement weather.
If you have been involved in a crash, see how a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC can help. We’ll help you understand your legal rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling 281-347-3247.
Source:
colonialdrivingschool.com/blog/drive-safely-around-curve
