Tips to Follow While Driving During A Dust Storm in Dubai

Sand and dust storms are a common occurrence in Dubai. They typically occur during the summer and can be a challenge for drivers. But, with proper preparation and an understanding of the best practices for driving during a sand or dust storm, you can reduce the risk and feel more in control. Here are some tips to follow while driving during a dust storm.

Tips for Safe Driving During Sand and Dust Storms

When driving in a sand or dust storm, it is important to maintain a safe speed, keep a safe distance from the vehicles in front, and avoid sudden stops or braking. Visibility may be limited, so these precautions can help you minimize the risks and drive safely through the storm. So, be confident and prepared for a safe and smooth drive during sand and dust storms this summer season. Let’s take a look at the 10 tips to follow while driving during a dust storm.

1. Keep all Car Windows Closed

Ensure that your vehicle’s windows are securely shut. Physically inspect each one to make certain there are no gaps, as even the slightest opening can allow sand and dust to enter. These particles can infiltrate every corner of your car, so it is essential to minimize their entry as much as possible.

2. Keep Your Windshield Wipers On

It’s crucial to use your windshield wipers when driving in dusty conditions. This will help to clear any accumulated sand or dust, ensuring that you have a clear view of the road ahead. This simple step can significantly enhance your driving experience, especially in challenging conditions.

3. Stay on Main Roads

While navigating through a dust or sandstorm, it is advisable to choose main roads as they are generally well-maintained and less susceptible to obstacles caused by debris, ensuring a safer driving experience in challenging weather conditions.

4. Turn on Hazard Lights

During a dust storm, it is crucial to make your vehicle as visible as possible to other drivers on the road. One effective way to do this is by turning on your hazard lights. By doing so, other drivers can spot your car more easily and take necessary precautions to avoid colliding with it. This simple action can help improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents during dust storms.

5. Use High Beams Wisely

When navigating through a sand or dust storm while driving, it’s crucial to maintain an awareness of your own visibility and the visibility of others on the road. Although low visibility may prompt you to turn on your high beams for improved sight, it’s important to use them responsibly and take into consideration their effect on other drivers. If you come across a vehicle heading towards you, turn off your high beams to avoid dazzling the driver and risking a collision.

6. Avoid Stopping in the Middle of the Road

Another important factor to follow while driving in a dust storm is to avoid sudden stoppage in the middle of the road. Stopping your vehicle abruptly in the middle of the road is dangerous and can cause a chain reaction of collisions. It can also damage your car and result in legal consequences. If you need to stop, make sure to safely pull off the road and take all necessary precautions.

7. Pull off the Highway if Visibility is Impacted

During a dust storm with severely reduced visibility, it is recommended to pull off the road and wait for the storm to subside. To avoid causing confusion to other drivers, turn off your lights while you wait. This will signal to other drivers that your vehicle is not in motion and reduce the risk of any potential incidents.

8. Stay Informed About the Weather Conditions

It’s important to stay informed about the weather during dust storms. After a dust storm, rain is often a possibility in Dubai. Stay updated by tuning into the weather on FM radio or using other reliable sources. The roads can become slippery from rain, so avoid driving at high speeds to prevent accidents. Drive at a safe and steady speed to avoid any incidents.

9. Verify Tyre Pressure and Visibility Before Resuming Your Drive

It’s essential to regularly inspect your tyres, particularly before driving in dusty conditions. Incorrect tyre pressure can significantly impair the handling and stability of your vehicle, putting control and safety at risk. Proper tyre inflation enhances road traction and increases overall road safety.
Visibility is significantly impacted during dust storms, so before starting your vehicle, it’s important to assess your visibility to ensure a clear view of the road ahead. Minimal visibility of 300 meters is required before resuming your drive.

10. Maintenance of the Car After a Dust Storm

Proper care and maintenance are necessary for your car after a dust storm. We suggest you take the car to a trusted car servicing center. You can also undertake the maintenance activities by yourself. The main servicing requirements subsequent to a sandstorm are:

• Check the car’s wheel rims and tyres for dirt and sand buildup and clean them.
• Inspect the car’s underbody and remove any accumulated dirt and sand to prevent damage to the suspension and other components.
• Check the car’s lights, mirrors, and windshield wipers and clean them if necessary.
• Lubricate door hinges, locks, and other moving parts to keep them functioning smoothly.
• Check the car’s battery terminals and clean them if necessary to ensure proper electrical conductivity.
• Replace or clean the air filter if it’s clogged with dust and debris.
• Check the air conditioning system and clean or replace the air filter if needed to maintain proper airflow.
• Check your car’s brakes and suspension for any damage caused by the dust and sand.
• Have the car’s oil and fluid levels checked and topped up if needed.

The Conclusion

In conclusion, sand and dust storms can be a driving challenge in Dubai. It’s important to take necessary precautions such as maintaining a safe speed, staying on main roads, turning on hazard lights, avoiding sudden stops, and pulling off the road if visibility is impacted. Stay informed about weather conditions, inspect tyre pressure and visibility before resuming your drive, and give your car proper maintenance after the storm. By following these tips, you can drive safely during a dust storm

Side Note:

At Fasttrack, we are dedicated to providing exceptional support for all of your vehicle maintenance needs. Our comprehensive service package includes free fitment, balancing, alignment, and tyre rotation every 10,000 kilometers, ensuring that your vehicle is always in top condition.