Rural Road Driving

Uncontrolled intersections

Some intersections on rural roads are not controlled by yield or stop signs. These intersections cam be very dangerous if drivers don't approach them with caution. When approaching an uncontrolled rural intersection slow down and be prepared to stop for oncoming traffic.

Rural Road Driving

Some road conditions and driving hazards are unique to rural roads when compared to a paved interstate or city street. Rural roads consist of paved, gravel and dirt roads. It is important to realize the characteristics of different types of rural roads.

tire traction is reduced

Stopping or turning on loose gravel is more difficult compared to pavement because ________________________________.

Gravel

Stopping or turning on loose gravel is more difficult compared to pavement because tire traction is reduced. Skidding can occur as traction is lost. A "washboard" effect can occur on gravel roads. This is a series of potholes that can affect steering and vehicle control. When driving on gravel, you must slow down. It will take you longer to stop and it is much easier to skid when turning.

"Washboard effect"

This is a series of potholes that can affect steering and vehicle control.

Wildlife

While animals can be present on any roadway, drivers often encounter more animals on rural roads as these roads extend through wildlife habitats and close to farms with livestock. Be aware and look for animals while driving on rural roads, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Rural roads

_____________________ consist of paved, gravel and dirt roads.

Wildlife

Deer are by far the highest cause of animal related automobile crashes. October and November are the peak months for deer accidents. If an animal is spotted, slow down and be prepared to stop. If there isn't time to stop or avoid the animal, don't swerve sharply. The driver's chance of getting seriously hurt are decreased if he/she hit the animal and avoids swerving into oncoming traffic or rolling the vehicle over in the ditch. Deer travel in groups, so always look for more animals if one is seen.

Dust

During dry periods of the year, gravel roads can become extremely dusty. Vision can be reduced. It is recommended that drivers use low beam headlights to make the vehicle more visible to others.

Narrow bridges and roads

Gravel or dirt roads can be narrow and have little to no shoulder. Ditches can be very steep and dangerous. Drivers should look for narrow bridge signs and be prepared to stop for oncoming traffic.

Steep hills and curves

Hills and curves on rural roads are often steeper and sharper than on highways, Before reaching the crest of a hill or before entering a curve, slow down, move to the right side of the road and watch for oncoming vehicles.

swerve sharply

If there isn't time to stop or avoid the animal, don't ________________________.

Blind spots

Intersections, hills and curves become even more dangerous when there are objects such as trees, cornfields or buildings blocking the driver's view of oncoming traffic.

Large and/or slow moving vehicles

It is common to encounter slow moving vehicles and large vehicles such as farm equipment, animal drawn vehicles and road maintenance equipment on rural roads. It is important to identify these vehicles early and slow down when meeting them or coming up behind them. Slow moving equipment may make wide turns, either left or right at unmarked entrances. Some farm equipment is wide than the road itself. Make sure the driver of the slow moving vehicle can see your vehicle before passing. Always use extreme caution when passing.

low beam headlights

It is recommended that drivers use _________________________ to make the vehicle more visible to others when gravel roads become extremely dusty.

Railroad crossings

Many railroad crossings on rural roads are marked only with a round yellow railroad crossing ahead warning sign and a white X-shaped railroad crossing crossbuck. Unlike most railroad crossings on major roads, there are typically no red flashing lights, warning bells, crossing gates or pavement markings at rural road railroad crossings. Always slow down, look both ways and be prepared to stop for a train before crossing the tracks.