What issues should be paid attention to when driving on mountain roads?
3 Answers
Issues that need attention when driving on mountain roads are: 1. Do not drive too fast, slow down; 2. Avoid temporary parking; 3. In case of emergency parking, stop at a wide roadside and turn on the hazard lights; 4. When going uphill, try to use lower gears; 5. When going downhill, use lower gears to control the speed with engine traction and avoid frequent braking. The method for starting uphill with an automatic transmission is: 1. Press the brake and pull up the handbrake at the same time; 2. Shift to L gear or S gear and slowly give gas; 3. When the car's forward power is held back by the handbrake, slowly release the handbrake, and the vehicle can start climbing smoothly.
I'm especially cautious when driving on mountain roads because experience has taught me that speed is crucial. Use lower gears to control speed on uphill and downhill sections, like shifting to second gear to slow down—don't rely solely on brakes to avoid overheating. Always reduce speed before turns, focus your gaze far ahead to anticipate the curve's direction early; staying in the outer lane is safer—don't cut corners or cross lines. Maintain a greater following distance, as blind spots on mountain roads make rear-end collisions more likely if the car ahead slows suddenly. Watch for pedestrians or animals appearing unexpectedly, especially during dusk when visibility is poor. Drive slower in rain or fog with fog lights always on. In short, slower and steadier means safety first—this makes the journey more enjoyable and worry-free.
I always make it a habit to check my car's condition before driving on mountain roads to ensure safety. Inspect the brake pads for wear and ensure they respond promptly to avoid losing control on downhill slopes. Adjust the tire pressure appropriately and make sure the tread isn't too thin, otherwise, slippery roads could become hazardous. Test all lighting systems, including fog lights and brake lights, to confirm they're functioning properly. Don't overlook the engine oil and coolant levels, as mountain roads with steep slopes place high demands on the vehicle. Prepare emergency tools: a spare tire, jack, and warning triangle are essential. Taking a little time for preparation can reduce the hassle of breaking down midway; mountain road rescues aren't easy, so early prevention saves trouble.
