How are we moving for winter time and how many shorter days are we out of the house and the sun is not dawning and we return to the comfort of the night until it gets dark? And to this phenomenon we add the usual morning snow, the periods of more intense rain or the simple congestion of the glass caused by differences in temperature and condensation, and it is important to present some basic “retardants” for driving in situations of reduced visibility.
In Portugal, near the end of two road accidents occur in the nighttime period or during the day in adverse visibility conditions (Source ANSR statistics 2021).
It is impossible to prevent natural phenomena from occurring, but at the very least, it is possible to mitigate their effects by using more defensive driving, ensuring that the lighting devices are in good condition, using some “tricks” to improve visibility through glazed surfaces and, of course, maintaining the Help Flash at Good luck... But let's go!
These are the essential elements for you to see and be seen:
- Ensure the status and effectiveness of the lighting devices and presence
- Consider using lighting for long periods (even during the day) and in adverse conditions
- Guaranteed visibility through glazed surfaces
- Check the condition of the glass cleaning brushes
- In case of immobilization on the road, ensure that your presence is properly signaled
- Pay attention to the road conditions and moderate speed.
- At night, you may feel tired, sleepy or diminished in visual acuity, do not drive
Starting with the maintenance of the status of the luminous devices, this is only necessary to ensure that all of them are operational. Do not hesitate to seek professional help to ensure that your lights are properly aligned and that their original effectiveness is assured. Faróis desalinhados ou baços são um perigo para seis e para los otros.
Namely, it is of no use if the lighting devices are present at 100% if they are not used. In adverse atmospheric conditions, you should consider using the main headlights, regardless of the time of day. It is possible to have a more modern car with the automatic lighting device functioning by itself. Not only for safety reasons, but also to ensure that you never miss out on using the lights when necessary.
Ensuring visibility through all glazed (and slick) surfaces is another essential element. Check the regularity and condition of the windshield wipers and both windows and mirrors. Differences in temperature and humidity also cause the glass to clog. The easiest way to unpack quickly is to go through the car's air conditioning system, increasing the temperature and directing the flow for the different glass surfaces. Various products are also available on the market that, more or less effectively, limit or mitigate this phenomenon of packing, potentially being a solution at hand.
Redouble your care and moderate your courage
If, for some reason, you have to stop on the shoulder of the road or in a place that places your safety at risk, especially at night or in adverse atmospheric conditions, signal clearly to your position. Never leave or leave the car before placing your Help Flash on a raised and visible point so that it automatically emits a powerful flashing yellow light. Remember that you should also wear a reflective collar. Only after ensuring these two previous steps must you exit the vehicle to place the signal triangle at a regulated distance.
Lembra-se phrase “devagar se vai ao longe”? In the winter period and, especially, at night, this maxim gives everything a new meaning. Moderate to speed and remember that, on a rough floor, the working distances double.
In the nighttime period, we still have to equate the limitations in the loss and delay in response on the part of the drivers. Increase your attention, increase safety distances and consider the effects of fatigue, if you feel sleepy or reduced visual acuity, stop and rest or take alternative transportation.
Saiba mais em https://help-flash.com
