How to Deal with Unexpected Situations on the Road: A Guide for New Drivers

Are you scared to learn to drive because of how serious road accidents can be? Or do you not prefer driving much due to the mishaps that can occur during a journey? Well, it is natural to feel like that because, in 2022 alone, the total number of fatal crashes in Australia was 655. 

Moreover, compared to the last five years, there has been a 0.8% increase in car commuters in Australia, leading to approximately 655,939 daily drivers. Hence, the increase in the driver can also account for several unexpected situations.

But what are these situations? How should you deal with such situations? Read this article to get a sneak peek into some of the most unexpected road situations.

Top 9 Unexpected Road Situations and the Ways to Deal with Them

Being prepared for any situation is crucial, whether you are a novice or a seasoned driver. Here are some of the most unexpected road situations and ways you can deal with them:

1. Blown Tire

A blown tire can be terrifying, but it is critical to remain calm and avoid making rapid moves. In case your tire has blown out, it is considered wise to keep your steering wheel stable and avoid slamming on the brakes. Apart from this, you can avoid such situations but checking your tires before driving and changing them every 50000 Km.

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Ease off the accelerator gently and allow your car to slow down. 
• After you have slowed down, signal and drive to the side of the road. 
• Confirm that you are positioned in a safe, isolated area, turn on your hazard signals, and use a jack to lift your automobile off the pavement. 
• Change the tire afterward. If you lack the appropriate equipment, get assistance.

2. Engine Failure

Engine failure is not a sudden occurrence. Your car may give you several hints, such as engine overheating, burning smell, engine overhauling, etc. Although you can escape such situations by keeping your car well maintained and ensuring it is timely serviced. 

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Try safely moving your car off the road and activating your hazard lights.
• Contact roadside help or a tow truck
• Explain the situation to roadside help or a tow truck. 
• Stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened while waiting for help
• Avoid getting out onto the road.

3. Brake Failure

Brake failure is a severe issue as it puts the driver, passengers, and others on the road at risk. There can be numerous reasons behind a brake failure, including worn-out brake pads, malfunctioning brake lines, or mechanical defects in the braking system. Hence, neglecting regular maintenance and ignoring warning signs can increase the likelihood of brake failure.

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Try to decrease speed using your car’s emergency brakes.
• Discover an area with fewer hindrances (Ideal spots would be an open field or an empty parking lot). 

• Use your horn to alert other vehicles.
• Turn slowly (towards a safe corner) to avoid losing control of your vehicle. 

4. Heavy Rain

In case it is raining heavily and you are driving a car, ensure that you slow down and maintain comparatively more distance from other cars. The greater the distance, the more time you will have to react to sudden movements or stops. Moreover, always remember to keep an umbrella in the car, as you never know when you need it.

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Turn on your headlights and windscreen wipers to increase visibility. 
• Minimise unexpected activities such as braking or swerving.
• Stop your vehicle by the side of the road in case it’s raining too heavily to drive.
• Wait until it diminishes before resuming your voyage.

5. Carjacking 

Carjacking can prove a frightening and unexpected experience for any driver. It implies the theft of a vehicle by force or intimidation, which can result in serious harm or injury to the driver or passengers.

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Do not oppose the assailant and obey their commands. 
• Call the police and report the event as soon as the perpetrator has left. 
• Furnish them with as much information as feasible. 
• Any valuable data, such as a description of the attacker and incident location, should be included in their inquiry. 

6. Road Construction 

While traveling, road construction can cause delays, detours, and even road closures. The presence of construction equipment and personnel on the road might further enhance the likelihood of accidents and collisions. Moreover, remember that the fines and punishments for speeding in construction zones are typically higher, so abide by all the traffic rules.

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Obey all posted signs and slow down
• Keep an eye out for employees and heavy equipment 
• Allow them plenty of room. 
• Maintain your lane and avoid unexpected moves that could result in an accident. 

8. Snow and Ice 

Driving on snow and ice could pose a dangerous condition requiring caution and competence. The slippery terrain can make vehicle control harder and increase the risk of an accident. You would also be surprised to know that nearly 135000 people die yearly in car accidents due to icy roads.

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Reduce your speed
• Increase your distance from the vehicle behind and in front of you, providing more stopping distance and lesser risk of collision. 
• Install winter tires in your car.
• Carry a snow shovel and emergency supplies such as blankets, food, and drink.

9. Foggy Day

Foggy weather can easily compromise your visibility while driving. In this scenario, drivers must rely solely on their judgment and concentration. This situation is so severe that you can be part of a collision even though it is not your fault.

How to Deal with the Situation? 

• Lower your speed and look out for other vehicles closing towards you.
• Turn on the fog lights of your car, as it will increase visibility.
• Refrain from unnecessarily changing lanes.
• Ensure that your car’s windshield is clean.
• Use your car’s wipers and defrosters. It will keep the fog from settling on your car.
• Turn your hazard lights on to indicate your position to other cars. 

Conclusion

Now that you know how to tackle the unexpected situations you might face while driving. Grab your car keys and get out there because, with time, practice, and proper guidance, you will be ready for such sudden road situations. 

Moreover, if you are looking for proper guidance, Onroad driving school is the ideal Sydney driving school that can help you best in such cases. They have a team of well-trained professionals who can provide a detailed driving lesson on dealing with such situations. So, contact them now!