IAM, the road safety charity, has recently started offering motoring tips in order to help people drive better on rural roads, which are some of the most dangerous in the country. This article is going to look at some of the best that are being offered from the most advanced driver in the country, Peter Rodger.
First off, it is very important to be aware of the fact that there are often vulnerable road users on the smaller roads. This will include cyclists and horses and you should travel slowly and make sure that you pass them with plenty of space. If it is not safe to pass, wait until it is safe to do so.
It is also important that you slow down before going round a bend. As the roads are narrow, you risk hitting a car that you cannot see if you go around the bend too fast. Once you can see right through the bend, you should increase your acceleration before you’ve finished the corner.
If you are in an isolated area, but see houses, you should be extra careful as it is possible people will be coming in and out of these houses and will not expect traffic. You should also be aware that on these isolated roads, there tend to be more farm vehicles so you should watch out for these coming out of hidden driveways and entrances.
You should also make sure that you keep control of your vehicle if an animal runs out in front of you on a country road. If you swerve out of the way you are far more likely to have a serious accident. You should not stop, as it is far better to have a broken fog light from hitting the animal, then it is to have a broken car from hitting the bank.
