6 Tips for Driving in Wildfire Smoke

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Each year, areas of the world deal with wildfires that consume large amounts of acreage. Visibility is often low on roads covered with a layer of smoke. Experts report that wildfire smoke can rise as much as five miles into the air and then travel thousands of miles depending on winds. 

We can help you drive through the dangerous area with some helpful tips. Of course, the first thing you should know is to slow down. Forget about any appointment you might have, safety is more important. Drive as carefully as you can and follow the advice from below. 

1. Keep Windows Rolled Up

Although the first thing you want to do is slow down when driving through smoke, it is just as important to keep your windows rolled up. Be sure to use the recirculate air option on your vehicle’s heating and air conditioning system to be sure the smoke does not enter your car. 

Every so often, however, you will want to open your window slightly to release any gases that may have built up inside the car. Carbon dioxide levels can build up quickly when your vents or windows are closed for too long. Just leave the window open for a few minutes and then close it again. 

2. Use Driving in Fog Practices

Driving in smoke is similar to driving in fog. You want to avoid slamming on your brakes and be sure to use your turn signals. Don’t follow the car in front of you too closely. Keep more distance than usual in case they must stop suddenly. If you know traffic signals are coming up, begin slowing some before you reach them to warn cars behind you. 

3. Avoid Using Hazards

Many people believe that if they are driving under the speed limit, turning on their hazard lights will keep someone from hitting them. Actually, in low visibility, it may appear as if you are stopped on the road. When a driver sees that, they may try to go around you, resulting in an accident. If this happened to you, make sure to discuss your car accident case with a lawyer.

Although you do not want to use your hazard lights, you do want to turn on your headlights. Use your low beams and, if your car is equipped with them, fog lights. 

4. Watch Out for Animals

If you are driving in rural areas, keep an eye out for animals. Wildfires and smoke may result in animals escaping from barns, fields, or pens. If this happens, a cow, horse, or other large animals could be in the roadway and you might not see them until it is too late. 

If you notice broken fencing or suspect livestock may have tried to escape the smoke, keep your eye on the road ahead as best you can. 

5. Pull Over

If the conditions are extremely bad, pull over and sit on the side of the road until you feel safe. Be sure to turn your hazard lights on, remain in the car, and call for help. Police may be able to come to your location and drive you out of the smoky area. 

6. Don’t Cause Additional Fires

While driving in a fire-prone area, you don’t want to be the cause of another fire. If you have a flat tire or your brakes are locked, pull over as sparks could cause dry grass to ignite. 

Don’t drive in dry grass as the heat from your exhaust could ignite it. Never throw lit cigarettes out of the car window. Not only can it start a fire in dry conditions, but it is also a hazard to vehicles behind you, especially motorcycles.

Contact a Lawyer

If you were involved in an accident while driving through wildfire smoke, contact a lawyer as soon as possible. You can usually arrange for a no-obligation consultation with many firms. Just call them or fill out the online form on their website.

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