There’s nothing quite like a relaxing drive in the country, is there? It can be a great way to clear your head and enjoy driving without the hustle and chaos of the dual carriageway or the main roads. We all like an escape every now and then, but that doesn’t mean you can let your guard down completely when you’re out in the quiet.
Driving down country roads can still be quite dangerous, especially if you’re new to them and don’t have much experience. They twist and turn, and they often become narrow enough that you question whether your car can get through them. With our top tips for safe driving on country roads, we’re sure you’ll feel a lot more confident.
What is classified as a Country Road?
Country roads, also known as rural roads, are classified as being located in areas away from towns and cities, with no road markings. They are often much tighter and narrower, and are usually found in rural areas. They can be challenging to navigate, and they don’t always have road signs to help you out.
Why Driving on Country Roads Can Be Dangerous
When you’re driving on a country road, there is an increased risk of wildlife running out in front of you, and you need to be mindful of other drivers speeding down the narrow lanes. They have more potholes and issues than regular roads, and adverse weather conditions make them even more dangerous, especially at night.
Tips for Safe Driving on Country Roads
If you want to stay safe while driving on country roads, these tips and tricks should help make that much easier for you. After all, we want you to be secure so your premiums stay low.
Check Your Speed
The speed limit for single-carriageway roads might be 60mph, but this doesn’t mean you have to go that fast when you’re driving down a country road. Drive cautiously, especially when you’re approaching a bend or a blind spot, and listen out for oncoming vehicles. Speed kills, so stick to a speed that makes you feel safe and confident.
Watch for Livestock
May, October, and November are the most common months for deer collisions, so it’s good to be extra cautious during that time. In areas where you see signs for livestock crossings, be sure to slow down in case you encounter them being moved. Even driving past fields with sheep or cattle should be done slowly in case any of them escape.
Consider Your Right of Way
It’s hard to know what your right-of-way is when you’re on country roads, but there are some quick tips that make it a bit easier for you to tell. First, if there are no cars behind you, but there are cars behind them, it’s often seen as polite to let them go first. Similarly, if the other car moves to the left, they are likely indicating that you should pass.
Rethink Overtaking
There are numerous sudden bends and blind spots on country roads, so it’s best to avoid overtaking unless you have a clear stretch of road and it is safe to do so. If you are stuck behind a tractor or other cars, it can feel tempting to overtake, but this should be avoided. Instead, be patient and wait it out. It’s not worth the risk.
Be Mindful of Horses, Pedestrians, and Cyclists
Country roads are more commonly filled with horse riders, pedestrians (often walkers), and cyclists. This means you have many more hazards to be aware of when you’re driving. It’s especially true in the case of horses, where you need to slow down and ensure you pass them as slowly and quietly as possible to avoid spooking them.
Lights and Weather Conditions
You can use full beams on country roads for better visibility; just remember to switch to dipped headlights when you see another car approaching to avoid dazzling them. The darkness is intense at night, so full beams are necessary. Similarly, you need to drive extra cautiously in adverse weather conditions because the roads are rarely treated.
Are Electric Vehicles Suitable for Country Roads?
It was once thought that electric vehicles were a poor choice for country roads due to the lack of charging stations. However, not only do they now have plenty of places for you to charge up, but they also go a lot further than they used to. They’re quieter, which is perfect for horses and wildlife, and they are much better for the environment.
