Narrow roads. Blind turnings. Wildlife encounters. All this can make driving down country lanes stressful for even the most experienced drivers. Accidents on country roads are very common. In fact they’re the most dangerous roads in Britain, according road safety charity Brake.
There’s plenty you can do to stay safe though. In this guide, we’ll go through common dangers and tips for staying safe driving on country roads.
What to know about country roads
Country roads aren’t designed for heavy traffic. They come with hazards you won’t find elsewhere, too. From uneven road surfaces to slow-moving vehicles, you’ll need to keep your wits about you while you’re driving down them. Watch out for:
- Farm animals and wildlife
Don’t be surprised if you see the odd flock of sheep or herd of cattle crossing the road. There’s also the chance of running into a deer, pheasants, and other wildlife. Collisions with larger animals can be deadly, so you’ll need to be alert and prepared whilst driving. - Horse riders, cyclists and bikers
Horse riders and cyclists are common on country roads. These road users are particularly vulnerable, as fast-moving vehicles can easily cause accidents. You’ll need to take extra care if you encounter them and give them plenty of space if you need to pass. You’ll also want to be on the lookout for motorcyclists, too. - Pedestrians
As most country roads are narrow, it’s likely you’ll see people walking down these roads. Dog walkers, kids, ramblers - you can never quite be certain of who’s around the next corner.
Country road speed limits
Despite their winding paths and blind corners, the speed limit on country roads can be up to 60mph. Pay particular attention to any signs indicating a lower speed limit. Limits will probably be reduced around pedestrian crossings and junctions. Many country roads also lead into small villages and towns, where the speed limit will most likely be 30mph.
We really recommend you don’t drive that fast on country roads – even when the limit’s 60mph. As we’ve already mentioned, there are plenty of additional hazards you need to be aware of. Adapt your driving to the type and condition of road you’re on.
When driving down country roads:
- Don’t treat speed limits as a target. It’s not usually safe to drive at 60mph.
- Take the road and traffic conditions into account. Be prepared for unexpected or difficult situations and adjust your speed as a precaution.
- Around junctions, make space for other road users.
- Look out for unmarked junctions where nobody has priority.
- Be prepared to stop at traffic control systems, road works, rail and pedestrian crossings, or traffic lights.
- Try to anticipate what pedestrians and cyclists might do. If pedestrians, particularly children, are looking the other way, they may step out into the road without seeing you.
It’s worth slowing down a bit more if you’re unfamiliar with the road. Sharp corners can seemingly appear from nowhere. Oncoming traffic may block up the road. There may be passing point where you need to be ready to give way. Taking it slow will give you more time to react to anything you see while driving.
How to stay safe on country roads
We’ve already mentioned two of the most important things: slowing down and being hyper-aware of your surroundings.
You should also avoid overtaking on country roads unless you absolutely have to. With tight bends, blind corners, and hills disrupting your view, trying to overtake can be dangerous. If you find yourself behind horse riders or cyclists, only overtake when you have a clear view of the road in front of you. Don’t sit right behind them while you are waiting for a safe spot.
In these situations, overtake slowly. Leave plenty of room between yourselves and other road users, even after you’ve passed them. You might even need to abandon overtaking if necessary.
If you happen to get caught behind a tractor, it will likely turn off into a field before long. In most situations, tractor drivers will pull over when they have a chance to let you through.
If you’re driving down a country road at night, keep your lights on high beam where you can. That way you can see what’s in front of you. Only dip them when there’s other traffic, pedestrians, or livestock on the roads.
Finally, if the weather takes a turn while you’re on a country road, slow down a little bit more. Country roads aren’t maintained as well as other roads, and it’s common for these types of roads to flood when it rains. Larger puddles can also hide potholes which can damage your car. Where it’s safe to, slowly drive around puddles. If you’re able to get off the country road, even better.
Country roads can throw up all kinds of problems. But these tips should help you stay safe. Just remember to take it slow, be aware, and be careful of any potential hazards.
With AXA car insurance, you’re covered for accidents on country roads in the exact same way as any other. So, if you do have an accident, AXA are here to help.
