For some drivers, nothing beats the thrill of leaving the pavement behind. While off-road driving can offer plenty of fun, the road construction crew at GMG General in Anchorage, AK, is quick to note that if you aren’t cautious, what starts as a fun experience could quickly become dangerous.

Stay safe when driving on unpaved surfaces by following these tips:

Slow Down

Reducing speed is one of the most basic things you should do when you leave paved roads behind, but it’s also one of the most important. Your vehicle will handle differently on unpaved surfaces. Each material could affect your ability to maintain full control. Swerving or braking at high speeds on an unpaved surface can easily lead to disaster. By slowing down, you’ll give yourself additional time to react appropriately to changing conditions and avoid potential hazards.

Get the Right Tires

With sharp rocks, deep pockets of mud, and other driving hazards, many standard tires simply don’t have the strength or tread depth for off-road conditions. Make sure that your vehicle has appropriate tires for unpaved surfaces before you head out on your next driving adventure.  

Follow Carefully

Just as you would do in a road construction area, increasing your following distance can play a big role in staying safe when driving on unpaved surfaces. In general, it is recommended that you follow at least six seconds behind other vehicles. This way, you are much less likely to have your visibility obscured by a cloud of dust or have a flying rock crash into your windshield.

For quality road construction and other contracting services, you can depend on the team at GMG General. To learn more about the services offered by this paving company or to request a free estimate for their work, visit them online or call (907) 349-7854.