Once you get out of the state’s urban centers, you’ll see a lot of land, and very few people. To drivers, this might represent unique driving risks with which you might not be readily familiar. Here’s some tips to keep in mind when you get out of town. 

Just because there aren’t other cars around doesn’t mean you don’t face rural driving risks. That’s why you have to be careful when you drive in rural areas. 

Safety Risks in Rural Areas 
You might think the open road is relatively safe. You might even feel the urge to open the throttle and cruise. Not so fast. There are plenty of driving risks on rural roads that might lead to an accident. 

• Rapid curves and blind spots in roadways might disrupt a driver’s line of sight. There are higher risks of collisions in these areas.
• In periods of severe weather, rural roadways tend to freeze, wash out or become littered with debris much easier than those in urban areas.
• Wildlife can easily stray onto roadways.
• A lack of lighting in these areas can easily make visibility difficult. Without stoplights, you might have only the light from your headlamps to protect you.
• Distances between towns might make it harder for you to get cell service, or mean you have to wait a while for help in case a problem occurs. 

• Slow down in all curves, especially on slick roadways, and always obey the speed limits.
• Use your lights and wipers during all periods of severe weather.
• Keep your cell phone near you (but don’t use it while driving) to call for help if necessary.
• If you have a breakdown, stay with the car until help arrives. Don’t wander away, and don’t accept a ride unless it is from law enforcement.
• Always proceed with caution at night, or in the dawn or dusk hours. These are some of the prime times that deer and other wildlife might wander into the road.