Summer vacation:

basic tips for mountain driving

The mountains are one of the preferred destinations for families on summer vacations. Aligning and adjusting the car, preparing the luggage, reserving the accommodation, scheduling the leisure activities and, of course, establishing the travel route, are routine activities when planning a summer family trip.

But is it necessary to learn to drive in the montains?

If you have already done so, you probably know the panorama of what you will face on the road, and you will not be surprised by certain conditions of driving in the mountains. But, if you are a novice in this terrain, it is good that they know these basic tips for driving in the mountains.

Basic tips for mountain driving Driving in the mountains can be a very pleasant experience. However, it can carry some dangers. In the face of recklessness, there will not be a second chance to correct.

Stay focused It is important that you pay constant attention to what is happening around you and the path you are following. The roads, in high mountains, are usually winding, and you do not know what you will find when taking a curve. Strong winds, or the unexpected appearance of animals on the road, can play a trick on you.

Attention to speed limits Although this is always a valid recommendation, to drive in the mountains it is imperative to strictly adhere to the published speed limits. Not all roads are properly marked. When driving on narrow, winding roads, where there is no warning about the allowed speed, it is good to be careful with the accelerator, especially when approaching a curve in a hill.

Stay in the outer lane When cornering, you must stay in the outer lane of the road. Cars that run too fast tend to occupy the interior of the road. If two vehicles are traveling in the opposite direction, at high speed, through the centre of the road, a collision will surely occur.

Driving in low gears When descending hills, you should try not to use the same gear for a long time. Doing so unnecessarily wears the brake pads, and places increased demands on the engine.

Climate changes In the mountains the climate is governed by different rules. When driving in the mountains, the weather can change in an instant. Rain, storms, or strong winds can appear quickly. At the slightest sign, about the appearance of any of these phenomena, it is advisable to reduce speed immediately, or even, depending on the intensity, stop and wait.

Take a break Driving in the mountains can be stressful for a seasoned driver experienced on large highways. Driving at low speed, on rough roads, with your attention always on the road, wears out and tires. It is necessary to take things very calmly and make several rest stops. Even having two drivers is a very good idea.

Choosing the right vehicle The mountain is the propitious setting for manual transmission cars to shine and show their power. With them, it is possible to get full control on long ascents or descents. An automatic transmission car can also do it, but with more effort from the car and the driver.

Tips for driving in the mountains:

Pay attention to signs that indicate dangerous or very steep steps or summits.
As the road gets steeper, a reduction in engine power is experienced. It is necessary to use the clutch and shift into lower gear.
If the problem persists and the engine registers less than 1500 rpm, it is necessary to brake, clutch and continue downshifting.
Remember that, as a rule, both climbing and descending, the steeper the road, the lower the speed should be.
When going up or down to a lower gear, the engine will sound different than it does on flat ground. This is normal, as the RPM is well below the minimum level indicated by a red line on the tachometer.
In terrain where snow or ice is present, precautions should be extreme, and the speed should be as low as possible.
The road and first aid kit must be complete and in perfect working order, to drive in the mountains. Cell phones, radios, batteries, water and survival items should not be missing in the car.

Have a safe trip!