Tips for countryside driving

When you pass your driving test, the whole road network is your oyster – even if you’ve only ever driven in urban areas before. The British countryside is bursting with stunning scenery and endless opportunities to make memories. Whether it’s camping in the foothills or sharing an Airbnb, there’re plenty of places to visit and lots to see and do.

Before you go, remember that driving on country roads can be a little trickier than city streets. Roads in more rural areas may lack road markings, be tighter, and visibility can be reduced. That doesn’t mean you have to be daunted by them.

Here are a few things to keep in mind ahead of your drive…

Awareness and safe speed

Drivers new to country roads should do their best to remain calm and drive at a sensible, safe speed. Winding country lanes are often lined with high hedges. This creates hazards such as blind bends.

Drive at a safe speed

You should always drive within the speed limit and keep to a speed you feel safe and confident with. Doing so will allow you to prepare for and react appropriately when faced with potential hazards.

Watch out for blind bends and corners

Rural roads often feature blind bends which aren’t marked or signposted. Be cautious when approaching bends and slow down before the curve, not on it. Always be prepared to stop if needed.

Look out for road signs

Before you leave, revise road signs commonly found on country roads. This will help to remind you of what they mean and how best to respond to them.

Visibility and hazards

You may be used to pot holes and darkened streets, but reduced visibility on rural roads comes with its own set of challenges.

Use headlights sensibly

Drivers are responsible for making sure their visibility is as good as it can be. This is something to keep in mind particularly during dusk, dawn, and severe weather conditions. You should use your headlights when needed and only switch to full beam if necessary. If you’re on a dark road and spot a car coming the other way, switch to normal headlights and slow down until they have passed safely.

Keep an eye out for livestock

Various animals live near rural roads, so stay alert and be prepared to stop if needed. From cows and sheep to goats and horses, you never know what could be waiting around the corner. You may also come across wild inhabitants such as foxes, badgers, hedgehogs, and deer. The best thing to do is drive at a sensible speed, approach bends with caution and always be ready to stop.

Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists

Pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders will use rural roads. So, keep a lookout for them and give them plenty of space when passing.

Avoid potholes

Country roads are often used by heavy machinery and slow-moving farm vehicles. Add local road users and holidaymakers to the mix and you may find road surfaces aren’t in the best condition. Make sure you look out for potholes and avoid them as best you can.

Be aware of high hedges and tall trees

Trees and shrubbery can block your view, so be incredibly careful when approaching bends and junctions.

Lane discipline and overtaking

Avoid overtaking if your view is blocked

Never overtake on bends or hills when you can’t see oncoming traffic.

Stick to the left

Country lanes are narrow, so keep to the left and leave space for passing vehicles. Avoid straddling the centre of single-track roads. Instead, look ahead and use passing places whenever possible.

Stay within your lines

Don’t cut corners, particularly on bends, as doing so can cause accidents.

Disclaimer
Correct at the time of publication. Information in this article has been gathered from various sources, therefore Swinton Insurance cannot be held responsible for any view or opinion expressed herein.