How to drive safely on dirt roads

Whether you’re tackling a country drive, the Big Lap of Australia or just need to traverse some back roads on your next weekend gourmet journey, it will pay to consider how to handle your car when moving from bitumen to dirt and gravel roads.

Dirt roads can range from smooth, slick clay to rutted and corrugated gravel tracks, but they all demand extra care and attention.

Of course, making sure your car and tyres are in optimal condition at all times makes sense, but it’s even more important if you’re heading off the blacktop.

And we’re not just talking about 4x4 off-road driving here. Even normal dirt roads place extra loads on your passenger car or SUV’s suspension and tyres.

So, if in doubt, have your car and rubber checked out before you leave.

Stopping distances can be longer on dirt roads, and there’s not the same level of grip on offer as normal roads.

Dust can be an issue in terms of vision, and there’s also the added challenge that many dirt roads are narrow and sometimes winding.

All of these factors demand extra attention.

carsales enlisted former Australian Rally Champion, Molly Taylor, to give her tips for safer dirt road driving. So, check out our video and also see our checklist below on how to drive safely on dirt roads:

• Check your car’s tyre pressures
• Check your car’s tyre depth
• Wind up the windows and set your air-con to ‘Recirc’
• Keep a safe distance from any cars in front
• Look well ahead for road hazards like potholes, washaways or just rough sections
• Moderate your speed; it’s easy to arrive at a corner faster than you expect
• Remember, stopping distances are longer on gravel
• Also consider that you won’t have the same grip in corners on gravel