100-car pileups are a rare thing, but as the 96-car pileup at Barrie shows us, they do indeed occur. What if you end up in one? Don’t become just another statistic! Read the following tips to help avoid such a pile-up in the first place, or survive one if you encounter a jam.
Pay attention to weather updates
When it comes to car accidents, inclement weather is high on the list of leading causes and contributors to car pileups and accidents. Regardless of whether you are driving a sturdy Ram 1500 truck or a delicate Ford Fusion sedan, paying attention to the weather is of utmost importance and can make all the difference. In general, the best way to deal with bad weather is to stay in and avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
If you must head out, keep a close eye on the speedometer. Though the speed limit says 110 km/hr, weather isn’t taken into account, so use your best judgement to avoid sliding into a snowbank.
Make sure your tires are in good shape
Just like you can get tired and worn out after a heavy workout, the tread on your tires takes a beating every time you drive out as well. The tread on your tires should never fall below 1/16 of an inch (1.6 millimeters) in depth. If you regularly drive on wet or snow-covered surfaces, you’re safer with twice that depth. Either buy a gauge to measure the tread accurately, or use the penny test if pressed for time.
Keep your eyes focused on the road
When in the car, it’s important to focus on one thing at a time. Set up the climate control and music station beforehand so you don’t need to fiddle with the controls while driving, taking attention away from the road. Keep your hands firmly on the wheel at all times and always adjust your rearview mirrors for maximum viewing potential. Stay alert for any incoming obstacles.
Slow down
Speed is a significant factor in the number of fatalities and the number and severity of the injuries that result from road crashes. Driving at lower speeds not only reduces the likelihood of an accident but also the severity of the accident, if one does occur. Remember that the posted speed limit is merely a suggestion. Use your discretion and never exceed the speed limit by a significant amount, if at all.
Avoid tailgating other vehicles
Tailgating is essentially defined as an automobile following another automobile too closely, thus reducing reaction time and increasing the risk of an accident. In a lot of cases, drivers may not even realize that they were indeed tailgating the vehicle in front of them until it is too late – when they have to slam the brakes in vain.
Always keep a safe distance, and if the car ahead of you is going too slow for your taste, simply speed up and pass them so you can avoid tailgating. Under good driving conditions, stay at least three seconds behind the car in front of you. In bad weather, make it at least six to nine seconds.
Make sure you have traction
The word traction refers to your car’s ability to maintain friction between your car tires and the pavement, and can be affected by a variety of factors. If it’s slippery out, ease off on the accelerator and brake in advance. When it comes to maneuvering your car successfully, traction is everything. If your car does not come with an anti-lock braking system, pump the brake pedal slowly instead of slamming it down to come to a gradual and safer stop as you slow down.
Always pack your car with supplies
Make sure your car is well stocked up with emergency supplies, both to replenish you and your car. Always have an extra gallon of windshield wiper fluid handy in the trunk, and consider a bag of sand and a portable shovel in case you get stuck.
Adjusting speeds and being extra cautious may seem like common sense, but as history shows us, one can never be too careful. Buckle up and stay safe on the road.
Have you survived a 100-car pileup and got any more tips to add? Leave a comment below or send us a tweet @Unhaggle.
