Stay Calm and Steer: What to Do When Your Wheels Leave the Pavement
It’s every driver’s worst nightmare: you’re cruising down the highway, and suddenly your wheels leave the pavement. Whether you’re driving on a dirt road or just hit an unexpected patch of gravel, there are steps you can take to keep yourself safe.
First, stay calm. Panic and overreaction can lead to dangerous situations. Instead, focus on maintaining control of your vehicle. Keep your steering wheel steady and your foot off the brakes. If you try to brake while your wheels are not in contact with the road, you risk skidding or losing control of your vehicle.
Next, steer your car back onto the pavement. Look for a clear area of the road where you can safely steer your car back onto the pavement. Be gentle when turning the wheel and avoid sudden movements that could cause your car to slide or flip.
If you can’t steer your car back onto the pavement, aim for a soft landing. Try to steer your car towards a grassy or sandy area that will provide a softer landing if you must go off-road. This can help reduce damage to your vehicle and prevent serious injuries.
Remember, it’s important to take preventative measures to avoid leaving the pavement in the first place. Stay alert, especially in unfamiliar areas or during inclement weather, and maintain a safe speed that allows you to react quickly to unexpected situations.
In summary, staying calm and steering your vehicle back onto the pavement or aiming for a soft landing are the most important actions to take if your wheels leave the road. By taking preventative measures and staying alert, you can reduce the likelihood of this situation happening and keep yourself and others safe on the road.