- By Divanshi Sharma
- Tue, 26 Sep 2023 07:09 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Driving Tips: Who doesn't love a road trip to the mountains and us Indians are fortunate enough to have some of the most scenic views when it comes to driving in the hills. The chilling weather and the spectacular views of the hills contribute to creating memories for a lifetime.
However, these memories can also turn out to be very horrid in case of mishaps which is a possible occurrence during a road trip to the mountains. Driving on the hilly areas can be a tedious task and isn’t as simple as driving on the plains. If you’re not aware of how to drive in those hilly areas or it's your first time driving up the mountains, you can find yourself in some unexpected situations. Here are some key things to keep in mind while driving your car to the mountains.
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Road Sign Awareness
Pay close attention to road signs in the hills, as hilly terrains can be narrow, unpredictable, and unsafe. Road signs are essential for safe driving in hilly areas as they provide information and guidance for driving through these challenging terrains.
Gear Selection
Choosing the right gear is very important when driving in the hills. Uphill drives require lower gears for maximum torque, while downhill sections benefit from higher gears and slower speeds. Active usage of brakes is needed to maintain balance and control.
Avoid Neutral on Downhill
Avoid driving in neutral when going downhill as gears act as speed modifiers and provide extra stopping power when required. Driving in neutral can also damage the vehicle's gearbox and powertrain.
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Overtaking
Overtaking in hilly areas should be avoided but if it is necessary, make sure you overtake with extreme caution. Make sure to never overtake in the between turns and corners, as it advised to wait for a long straight road to overtake.