Colorado is a majestic state that attracts newcomers from all parts of the country. If you have never lived in such an environment before, you will benefit from learning how to drive safely in this unique terrain. Making a shift to the Rocky Mountain state often means shifting your driving habits to ensure you are not an accident victim.
Safety all year round is best when you know how to adjust to the seasons and operate your vehicle properly. The most important thing for drivers is to always stay aware of your surroundings. If you need to send an urgent text or do something on your device, pull over and give that task your full attention.
Here are some additional safety tips that are important to know:
- Watch for animals crossing – Colorado has plenty of wildlife near the mountains. Distracted drivers are at a higher risk of causing damage to animals and their vehicles when they fail to slow down for an animal crossing the road.
- Don’t ride your brakes going downhill – Steep downhill roads is challenging to many new drivers. It is important to avoid riding your brakes all the way downhill. Doing this could heat up your brakes, making them less effective and more likely to burnout. Instead, downshift your gears and pump your brakes as needed.
- Allow the uphill vehicle to pass first– When you and another car are driving in opposite directions along a narrow mountain path, the car driving uphill has the right of way. Carefully pull over or back up to offer the uphill driver to pass you.
- Maintain your vehicle – Are your windshield wipers failing you? How are your brakes and tires? One of the best ways to prevent an accident is by ensuring your vehicle is equipped with everything it needs to run efficiently in the mountainous terrain.
- Prepare for dramatic weather shifts – Keep in mind that the weather you start out in may not be the weather you end up in. It may be sunny and dry down below, but you could find yourself battling blowing snow in the mountains.
Whether you are moving to Colorado or only visiting, it’s important to keep these safety tips in mind. Countless accidents occur all the time that vary in severity on Colorado roadways. If you can prevent serious injury or even death, do it. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe by practicing safe driving habits in the Colorado mountains.
