Essential Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Driving in the Hills

The cold of the mountains gives a pleasant and pleasant feeling in the scorching summer of the plains. The cold of the mountains inspires people to go on road trips to hill stations. In such a situation, who would not like to drive in the mountains. It is a unique experience in itself. The roads full of beautiful views and pleasant atmosphere inspire people to go on road trips. However, if you are not careful, it does not take long for these trips to become dangerous. Driving in the mountains is more challenging than driving on the roads of the plains.

If you do not know how to drive in hilly areas or this is your first experience, you may have to face unexpected situations. Here we are telling you some important tips which should be kept in mind while driving in the hills. So that you can ensure a safe and more enjoyable drive in the mountains.

Follow road signs

While driving on hilly roads, always keep a close eye on the road signs and follow them strictly. Remember, driving on hilly roads is much more challenging than in the plains. And it requires more patience and alertness. Road signs tell you a lot about the road conditions ahead and guide you on how to drive the vehicle. Mountain roads are often narrow, unpredictable and somewhat dangerous. Being cautious means you will be prepared to tackle the challenges ahead.

Drive in the right gear

It is very important to be in the right gear when driving on mountain roads. When going uphill, gravity works against you and slows down the vehicle. So, stay in a lower gear that has the most torque.

On the other hand, when driving on slopes, many people have the misconception that they can drag the car down by putting it in neutral. This can be quite dangerous. Remember that the gears of the car work like speed controllers and can give you extra power to brake when needed. It is advisable to stay in the same gear or one gear higher on the slope than you used while climbing. Having an extra gear allows you to do engine braking. This is the most effective way to drive on hilly roads, especially when you are descending. If you have an AMT (automatic transmission) car, drive it in manual mode on hills.

Use engine braking instead of just the brake pedal

Using engine braking instead of just the brake pedal is a very effective way to drive on slopes. Instead of keeping the brake pedal half-pressed, use engine braking technology. Using the brake pedal continuously can heat up the brake pads and eventually lead to failure, which can be disastrous. Stay in a lower gear even on slopes, so that you continue to get the facility of engine braking.

Avoid overtaking unless absolutely necessary

Avoid excessive overtaking on hills. Patience is the real wisdom while driving on hills. Overtaking on hills is a very tricky task and needs to be done with utmost caution. Never try to overtake another vehicle in the middle of a bend. Always wait for a long and wide stretch where there is enough space to overtake without causing trouble to anyone.

Use lights, indicators and horns properly

Using lights, indicators and horns properly is one of the essential etiquettes while driving on hills. Lights, indicators and horns are a means of communication with other drivers. This helps them understand your possible moves and messages. Also, follow the lights, indicators and horns of others to understand their intentions.

You can use lights, indicators and horns properly on hills like this:

• Use indicators before taking a turn: This will let other drivers know about your intentions in advance and reduce the chances of collision.

• Use headlights on dark turns: This will help you see the road ahead better and other drivers will also know about your presence.

• Use the horn carefully: Use it only when necessary, such as to prevent a hazard or to warn other drivers. Excessive honking causes noise and can be distracting.

• Use fog lights: If there is fog, using fog lights along with headlights can improve forward visibility.