Driving in High Winds

Now that winter is fast approaching the weather is getting worse, this consequently means that conditions for driving are also deteriorating. Driving any sized van in bad weather is not much fun and can be dangerous if mistakes are made. We have a few tips to help keep you and your cargo safe when driving in poor conditions.

Increase your Weight

In high winds the heavier a large vehicle is the safer it will be on the roads. A small load on your vehicle means you have a large surface area, but a very lightweight in comparison. If a strong gust of wind hits the top of your vehicle where there is no load it is likely to push your van and potentially send you off track. By increasing your weight, you are making the vehicle much heavier for the surface area. Consequently, it is harder for the wind to move you off track because of a more even distribution of weight.

Grip your Steering Wheel

Keeping a firm grip on your steering wheel is important during high winds, you cannot predict where the wind will come from and how strong it will be. If you keep a strong grip you will be more prepared to react if there is an unexpected strong wind.

Be Aware

Awareness of other road users is even more important in bad weather; your vehicle is likely to be much larger than other road users. Being aware of where they are in comparison to you is important, leaving plenty of room around your van, especially when regarding motorcyclists.

Drive Slowly

Reducing your speed during high winds and heavy rain reduces the risks associated with driving your large vehicle greatly. During strong winds, driving slower will reduce the impact of a strong gust hitting your vehicle and gives you more time to expect the wind coming towards you. During episodes of heavy rain, reducing your speed will allow your stopping distance to increase so in the event of needing to brake quickly you have the time to do so safely. Leaving a larger gap between you and the car in front will also be increased, which reduces the risks associated.

Plan your Route

During periods of bad weather planning your exact route beforehand is helpful. By planning your route, you can decide on the route that is going to be the safest for you and your vehicle. Avoiding areas near rivers that could floor during heavy rainfall is a good idea, this will avoid any last-minute route changes or challenges with flooding. Large open areas are also a good thing to avoid during high winds. Stretches of the road without trees or houses can mean that the wind has no barrier before reaching you, so winds are likely to be much stronger and hit you more directly.

Preparing and ultimately driving safely is the key to getting through the period of bad weather which is, unfortunately, most likely approaching.

To enquire about our refrigerated vans, contact our team, here! We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have and talk you through how you can purchase or hire out our vehicles!