Top tips for safe rural driving | Advice - Car News Apr 2016

ADVICE
main article image

15:33 Thursday 21 Apr 2016

The arrival of sunny weather makes a drive in the countryside an appealing prospect, but a road safety group has moved to highlight the challenges and dangers associated with rural roads.

Tight bends, unexpected wildlife, and narrow lanes are among the factors which have prompted Richard Gladman, head of driving and riding standards at the Institute of Advanced Motorists, to issue some handy tips for drivers heading out into the countryside to follow.

“There are so many potential distractions in this environment, but nothing beats driving through a country road with beautiful scenery on a nice day”, said Mr Gladman. “Take your time, plan ahead and enjoy the journey.  Most country lanes will have a speed limit of 60mph – but this doesn’t make it a target.”

His advice is to use markers such as hedge lines, telegraph poles, and lamp posts to help gauge as far ahead as possible the twists and turns of rural road, always remaining prepared for unexpected around unsighted bends such as cyclists or horses. Animals may often be found on rural roads – horses in particular are easily startled so reduce your speed and allow them plenty of room. Even in the sunny weather rural roads can be a hiding place for wet leaves and standing water, so take into consideration the effect these slippery obstacles may have on car control. Be patient with slow moving agricultural vehicles, and only overtake when there is plenty of room, no oncoming traffic, and you are certain there a no breaks in the hedge line concealing vehicles joining the road – if in doubt, hold back. When following buses and coaches keep a look out for passengers starting to move around inside – this will give an indication that the bus is approaching a stop.


Click here to sign up for our monthly newsletter



Popular news stories

 
Hubcap animal sculptures
The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS unveiled
Audi R8 prices revealed   The new Lotus Evora 400

Hubcap animal sculptures

 

The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS unveiled

 

Audi R8 prices revealed

 

The new Lotus Evora 400


Comments
INDUSTRY
Everything you need to know about the new Highway Code
ADVICE
14 million cars in the UK are damaged
ADVICE
Drivers should look beyond hourly labour rates, says NFDA chief executive
ADVICE
Dealer servicing could help boost premium badge car values, pricing expert suggests
ADVICE
Drivers urged to ask these questions
INDUSTRY
UK towns and cities with the most rapid and ultra-rapid EV chargers have been named.