Construction teams usually navigate gravel while working on a project. You may encounter this aggregate material on roads, build sites, or driveways that won’t be finished until construction is complete. Follow these four pieces of advice for driving on gravel.

How to Drive Safely on Gravel 

1. Avoid the Edges

While driving on gravel, you can have a higher risk of rolling over when the tires catch on the edge of the surface and flip the vehicle on its side. This is because gravel, unlike compacted dirt or strips of asphalt, does not provide a consistently solid surface for tires to grip during sharp turns. Stay several feet away from the edge to lower this risk, and slow down and move closer to the side if there is another vehicle coming your way. Avoid passing other vehicles, so you don’t endanger yourself or the other driver.

2. Go Slow

Since gravel roads are typically loose-packed, the aggregate moves under the pressure of vehicles, making stopping and turning more difficult because you have to account for the moving surface. Avoid high speeds and slow down significantly before stopping or turning to maintain control. You’ll also have better traction on hills if you drive at a slower speed, which increases friction between the tires and the aggregate.

3. Prepare to Skid

Skids happen when the vehicle starts moving in a direction other than where you’re trying to go. If you’re driving and the vehicle begins sliding in one direction, slowly press down on the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a stop. If you slam on the brakes, they may lock, which will worsen the skid and can turn you further away from your intended direction.

4. Keep a Safe Distance

Braking requires extra space on loose-packed surfaces. Instead of giving vehicles two car lengths of space on a paved road, increase that distance to stay about six seconds behind the next vehicle. This timing should give you ample opportunity to brake if the vehicle in front slows down. It will also protect your vehicle from flying gravel or debris that the other driver kicks up in their wake.

If you’re looking for a wholesale aggregate distributor, contact The Dolomite Group in Monroe County, NY. The company services construction workers and contractors with high-quality products and affordable prices. Call the Rochester-area company at (585) 381-7010 or visit the website for information on their inventory, including gravel, ready-mix concrete, sand, and crushed stone.