Motorists should be aware of extra hazards on rural roads
Posted by Richard Sinclair
Motorists should be aware that there are extra hazards on rural roads that are rarely found in cities.
This is according to Simon Elstow, head of training at the Institute of Advanced Motorists' commercial arm, IAM Drive and Survive.
He explained that around two-thirds of people killed while behind the wheel in the UK were driving on rural roads.
"Bank and summer holidays see drivers on rural roads that they are not familiar with. High speed limits, tight bends and unexpected hazards all add to the risk," Mr Elstow added.
He advised motorists to keep on the lookout for cyclists, horses and even herds of cows or flocks of sheep.
Mr Elstow also advised people to reduce their speed when approaching blind bends, as vehicles could be approaching from the opposite direction.
Earlier this month, Mr Elstow warned motorists to prepare for heavy downpours of rain over the summer by making sure their windscreen wipers are not worn.
Same thing here in the U.S; I read that most fatal accidents are on rural roads. I think it’s good to always be extra careful when you are not familiar with the roads in a particular area regardless of whether its rural or not. Especially if you don’t know the curves or how the road will curve, blind curves etc.
If you are a biker, especially watch out for mud on the road after the recent rain. Tractor tyres can drop big clods of mud big enough to come off one, and always seem to be on blind corners.