Driving during a hurricane is a daunting and often dangerous task. Strong winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and debris on the road can turn even a short drive into a hazardous journey. While it’s always best to avoid being on the road during a storm, emergencies and unexpected situations can sometimes make it necessary.
At Get Drivers Ed, we prioritize your safety and want to ensure that you have the knowledge you need to make informed decisions when driving in severe weather. In this blog, we’ll cover the dangers of driving during a hurricane, offer essential safety tips, and help you understand when it's best to stay off the road.
1. Why Driving During a Hurricane Is Dangerous
Understanding the Risks
Driving during a hurricane introduces numerous risks that drivers need to be aware of. The intense conditions can quickly overwhelm even the most experienced drivers. Here’s why hurricanes pose such a significant threat to road safety:
Heavy Rain and Flooding: Hurricanes bring heavy rainfall that can cause flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Water on the road can cause cars to hydroplane, making it nearly impossible to maintain control. Additionally, just six inches of moving water can knock a person over, and 12 inches can sweep a car off the road.
High Winds: Winds during a hurricane can reach speeds of 74 mph or more, which is strong enough to push vehicles off course or topple trees and power lines onto the road. Driving in such conditions can be extremely challenging, especially for larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks, which have a higher center of gravity.
Debris on the Road: Hurricanes can scatter debris like tree branches, rocks, and other objects across the roads, creating hazards that can cause tire blowouts or damage to your car. In some cases, the road may become completely impassable due to fallen trees or power lines.
At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of knowing the risks before attempting to drive in severe weather. Being informed can help you make safer choices, like deciding when it’s better to stay put.
2. Essential Tips for Driving Safely During a Hurricane
1. Avoid the Roads If Possible
The best advice for driving during a hurricane is simple: don’t do it if you don’t have to. During hurricane warnings, officials often advise staying off the roads entirely. If an evacuation order is in place, follow it immediately and avoid waiting until the last minute to leave.
Stay Updated: Listen to weather reports and updates from local authorities. These updates will let you know when it's safe to travel and when you should stay indoors.
Have a Plan: If you’re in an area prone to hurricanes, have an evacuation plan in place that includes multiple routes. Knowing your escape routes ahead of time can make a stressful situation more manageable.
By taking a driver education course with Get Drivers Ed, you’ll learn more about the importance of being prepared for all kinds of driving conditions, including severe weather events like hurricanes.
2. Drive Slowly and Carefully
If you absolutely must be on the road during a hurricane, drive slowly and cautiously. Reduced visibility and slippery roads make high speeds especially dangerous.
Increase Following Distance: In normal conditions, a 3-second following distance is recommended. During a hurricane, increase this to 5-6 seconds to give yourself more time to react to sudden stops or debris.
Use Low Beams: Use low beams in heavy rain to improve visibility without creating glare for other drivers. Avoid using high beams as they can reflect off raindrops and worsen visibility.
Driving slowly not only reduces your risk of hydroplaning but also gives you more time to react to unexpected situations. At Get Drivers Ed, we provide detailed training on how to adjust your driving habits based on road and weather conditions.
3. Watch for Flooded Roads
Driving through flooded roads is one of the most dangerous things you can do during a hurricane. Many drivers underestimate the depth of the water and find themselves stranded or swept away by the current.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown: If you encounter a flooded road, never attempt to drive through it. Turn around and find an alternate route. Even shallow water can hide dangers like potholes or debris.
Know Your Vehicle's Limits: If you must drive through water, be aware that most standard vehicles can stall or become unstable in just 6-12 inches of water. Never drive through moving water, as it can easily sweep your car away.
At Get Drivers Ed, we teach drivers to respect nature's power and understand that flooded roads should never be taken lightly. Being patient and finding a safer path can make all the difference.
4. Be Prepared for Emergency Situations
Having an emergency kit in your vehicle is always a good idea, but it becomes even more crucial when driving in extreme weather conditions like a hurricane. Your kit should include essentials such as:
Flashlight with extra batteries
First aid kit
Blankets or a thermal blanket to keep warm
Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
Charged power bank for your phone
Flares or reflective triangles to make your vehicle visible if you need to stop
In case you find yourself stranded, staying in your car and calling for help is often the safest option. Use your car's hazard lights to make your location visible to other drivers and rescue personnel.
At Get Drivers Ed, we encourage drivers to be proactive and prepared. Our driver education courses include tips for building a roadside emergency kit and knowing what to do in case of unexpected situations.
Conclusion: Safety First with Get Drivers Ed
Driving during a hurricane is not something to be taken lightly. Understanding the risks and preparing properly can make a significant difference in keeping you and your passengers safe. Remember, the best way to stay safe during a hurricane is to avoid driving altogether unless absolutely necessary.
However, if you do find yourself needing to be on the road, take it slow, watch out for flooded roads, and always have a plan for emergencies. At Get Drivers Ed, we believe that safe driving starts with being informed and prepared.
Ready to enhance your driving knowledge and skills? Sign up for one of our driver education courses at Get Drivers Ed today! Learn how to handle all types of driving conditions, from clear sunny days to the most severe weather, so you can stay safe no matter what the road throws at you.
