6 Tips for Safer Mountain Driving

There’s nothing more exciting and adventurous than driving in the mountains. The picturesque views are truly breathtaking. However, driving in the mountains can be dangerous. Narrow, winding paths can be treacherous and you might struggle if you cross paths with another vehicle – making accidents common (find out when should you speak to an attorney regarding a car accident by clicking the link).

It’s imperative to drive safely when you’re in the mountains. The following tips will ensure that you enjoy the scenery with minimal stress.

Fill up

You know you need to fill your car up before a long trip (to the Glenwood Springs Iron Mountains, for example). But, many people don’t know that mountain driving requires a little extra. Climbing steep terrains uses more fuel, so you’ll need to make sure that you have a full tank. Plus, gas stations will be few and far between, so preparation is key. You don’t want to have to pull over on a mountain path. There will be limited visibility and another driver might not see you.

Headlights

Unlike freeways, mountain roads don’t tend to be well lit. You might find yourself driving in foggy or snowy conditions, so you’ll need to make sure that you can see properly. Use your headlights to ensure the best possible visibility, and check that they’re in good working order before embarking on your trip.

Map it

There’s nothing more stressful than getting lost in the mountains. Some places have no signal and you might not cross paths with another person for a good while. So, map out your journey beforehand and make sure you know exactly where you’re going. Don’t just rely on Google Maps – a paper one will save you when you can’t get a connection.

Pack extra

When driving in the mountains, it’s better to be on the side of caution. Pack a car with plenty of supplies like food, water, warm clothes and a first-aid kit. In a worst-case scenario, you could find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere due to an accident or landslide, and roadside assistance could take its time.

Brake with caution

When driving on dangerous terrains, it can be tempting to overwork your brakes. It’s true, you don’t want to be speeding along these roads – but you also don’t want to damage your vehicle. If in doubt, use the tap method (quick, light taps on the brake pedal). Don’t forget to keep an eye out for road signs, too. These will warn you of any sharp turns or declines up ahead.

Eyes on the road

When driving in the mountains, it can be tempting to ogle at the wondrous views before you. Passengers are free to ogle away, but the driver needs to keep their eyes on the road. Instead, stop at designated viewpoints to get your fix.