By Bob Bondurant (5/5/2001)
For most of us around the country, stormy weather presents some real driving challenges. Whether we're faced with driving during summer downpours or in winter weather, we must take special care of our vehicles and pay particular attention to our driving during less-than-ideal conditions.
Visibility vital
One of the simplest tips to keep in mind is to make sure that the windows and mirrors on your vehicles are always clean. Good visibility is important, but it's even more vital when road conditions can make driving extremely hazardous. During the summer, dirt, grime and splattered insects can make your windshield messy in a hurry. In the winter, scraping a small patch of ice, just enough to see through the windshield, isn't good enough. Before you drive, remove all the ice and snow from all of your vehicle's windows and mirrors.
Make sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition and working properly. Change your wipers before you get caught in the rain or in a snowstorm.
Be sure to check the fluid levels, tires, hoses and belts at least once a month. Be sure that the radiator is completely filled with a water and coolant/antifreeze solution. If you are not certain of the level of coolant or antifreeze to use, play it safe and have it changed. While you are having it changed, it's also a good idea to have your entire air conditioning system checked before the really hot summer weather begins, and your air conditioning usage increases. If you have any leaks, or potential problems in the system, those can be fixed before you lose your cooling entirely. Then have your car's systems checked again before cold weather sets in. Winter weather places a large strain on many parts and systems on your vehicle, especially the electrical system.
Check tire traction
Also be aware of tire wear and the amount of pressure that you maintain in your tires. If your tires are worn and low on tread, you won't have much traction in either rain or snow. If you are uncertain as to the condition of your tires, drive to your local tire center and have them examined by a professional.
Bear in mind a few basic driving tips to help keep your driving excursions safe.
One of the most basic tips is to sit properly in the seat so you can feel your car and have more control. Always hold the steering wheel at the 3- and 9-o'clock hand positions. Here's the simplest way to check to make sure that your seating position is correct. First, sit up straight in the seat and extend your right arm over the top of the steering wheel. Next, make sure that your wrist is bent over the top of the steering wheel. You are now seated correctly. This technique will work in any type of vehicle. Sitting upright will help you be more alert and ensure that you are ready to respond to any type of driving situation.
Once you are behind the wheel, RELAX. You will have better control of your vehicle if you are able to steer smoothly, accelerate gradually and apply braking pressure gently. Smooth usage of the brakes is especially important while driving on slick surfaces. Be consistent with all the controls and the vehicle will tend to respond more predictably.
Although driving in bad weather can sometimes be hazardous, it can be made safer if we follow these simple pointers. As a rule of thumb, if something doesn't appear correct with your vehicle, have it checked out by a professional.
Likewise with your driving. If you are in a rush -- STOP, THINK, TAKE A SHORT BREAK AND COUNT TO 10. Remember to take a deep breath, which will release the tension in your body. This will help you to drive slower and get to your destination safely. Better to be safe than sorry. Enjoy your driving!
Bob Bondurant, racer and entrepreneur, owns and runs the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Phoenix, Ariz. For more information on classes and schedules, click over to www.bondurant.com or call (800) 842-RACE (7223).
