Tips for Driving on Dirt and Gravel Roads
Every once in a while, you’ll come upon an unpaved road. It could be gravel, dirt, sand, or some other loose material. There are a few things to keep in mind when you have to drive along one of these roads.
Model Overview: 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer
Tips for Driving on Dirt and Gravel Roads
[wptab name=”Slow Down”]
Slow down
Your traction will suffer on these loose, unpaved roads. Reduce your speed to help improve your vehicle’s handling. Plus, if you go too fast on a gravel road, you’ll kick up small rocks that can chip your paint.
[/wptab]
[wptab name=”Watch For Uneven Ground”]
Watch for uneven ground
Since these roads aren’t paved, they’re far more likely to have holes, dips, and uneven ground. Keep both hands on the wheel and be prepared for sudden changes in the road.
[/wptab]
[wptab name=”Increase Your Following Distance”]
Increase your following distance
If you’re driving behind someone on a dirt or gravel road, increase your following distance. With reduced traction, you won’t be able to stop as quickly as you would on regular pavement, and you don’t want to end up in an accident.
[/wptab]
[wptab name=”Consider the Weather”]
Consider the Weather
If you’re on a dirt road and it begins to rain, you will likely run into mud along the way. Be wary of mud puddles on the road. Otherwise, you might end up with a tire stuck in the mud. Freezing temperatures can also affect driving conditions on dirt and gravel roads.
[/wptab]
[wptab name=”Wash Your Car”]
Wash your car
After you reach your destination, give your car a good wash to prevent any dirt buildup. If there are any paint chips on your vehicle, you’ll want to wash and repair them to help prevent rust.
[/wptab]
[wptab name=”Be Careful on the Turns”]
Be careful on the turns
This is especially important on gravel roads: be careful around the turns. With loose gravel, pebbles can slip out from underneath your tires and cause you to lose control of the vehicle if you take a turn too quickly. Along the same lines, avoid slamming on the brakes or swerving as much as possible.
[/wptab]
[end_wptabset]
Car Maintenance: How to know if your tires need to be replaced
Sometimes driving on dirt and gravel roads is unavoidable, so make sure you are prepared and cautious along the way.
Sources: Washington County, Esurance
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