Slower and more concentrated: How to drive your car safely in a storm

As autumn arrives, bringing golden and gilded leaves dancing in the wind, or simply grey and oppressively windy, the Herbstzeit can take many forms. For those needing to drive in stormy conditions, the ADAC offers these tips for a safer journey.

First, avoid loud music or intense conversations, whether over the hands-free device or with fellow passengers. Keeping both hands on the steering wheel allows for quicker reactions. Remove your foot from the accelerator; driving slower gives you time to adjust the steering. If a gust picks up the vehicle, only tactile steering adjustments can help.

If the wind catches the car, only feeling steering can rectify the situation. Agitated steering can result in skidding. Increasing the distance from the vehicle in front and maintaining a safe distance from the side of the road provides more room for overturned or lurching cars or trucks.

Observing other traffic more closely is the best practice. Particularly vulnerable are vans, small trucks, buses, and trailers, which have a large attacking surface for the wind. Similarly, vehicles with tall extensions or campers are also more susceptible. Boxes on the roof or bicycles mounted on the roof increase the attacking surface as well.

If towing an attachment and noticing it becomes restless, immediately reduce speed and brake to stabilize the load, but only after checking the rearview mirror to ensure you're not endangering others. Hastily steering away from vehicles is unnecessary; it's better to wait and let them pass. Overtaking, especially large vehicles like buses and trucks, can be dangerous if the car behind catches the wind and suddenly gets hit. It's safer to let them pass.

In particular, on paths through forests, bridge crossings, tunnels, and entrances and exits, strong winds should be expected. Sudden gusts or swirling winds are deceptive, especially in these areas. Sometimes, it's better not to drive at all during storms. The ADAC recommends caution if the wind speed reaches 5 (29-38 km/h). For severe storms (wind speed 10 or higher) or an approaching hurricane, the Autoclub advises against driving altogether and waiting for better weather.

Why? Fallen branches or uprooted trees pose a real risk and can catch drivers unexpectedly. Motorcyclists should drive in the middle of the lane, giving themselves room to correct for the wind. Clothing that is too tight, or a snug leather jacket, reduces wind noise and makes the motorcycle quieter. Carrying gear like a fuel tank bag or top case increases wind sensitivity, so driving with such items should be done with extra caution. The faster the speed, the better.