Watch out on rural roads

16 June 2011 

On average, two thirds of those people killed on UK roads, were driving on rural roads. Bank and summer holidays see drivers on rural roads that they are not familiar with. High speed limits, tight bends and unexpected hazards all add to the risk.

IAM Drive & Survive head of training Simon Elstow advises drivers on how to deal with rural roads: 

• Expect a cyclist, horse, or even a herd of cows around every blind bend, and watch out for clues to their presence, such as mud or horse dung on the road. 
• Allow extra time in your journey for obstacles such as tractors and horses. Only pass when it’s safe for you and for them.
• New vegetation growth may block your view around bends. Your speed should reflect the distance you can see to be clear – if you can only see three metres ahead, you should be able to stop within that distance.
• Don’t rely solely on your sat nav. We’ve all heard the stories of lorries blindly following sat navs and getting stuck in rural roads.
• Remember, mud on the roads is slippery, especially in damp weather.
• Watch out for groups of bikers who can arrive unexpectedly and at speed. Listen out for clues of their approach and remember that the last rider in the group may be tempted to overtake dangerously to keep up with his friends.