Mountain Roads
Master steep grades and sharp curves
Mountain driving combines steep grades, sharp curves, varying weather, and often sheer drops. These conditions demand heightened awareness, proper technique, and vehicle preparation.
Why This Matters
Mountain roads are unforgiving - a moment is lapse can have severe consequences. Understanding proper technique for ascents, descents, and curves keeps you safe.
Key Actions to Take
Check brakes, fluid levels, and tires before mountain trips
Use lower gears for both climbing and descending
Never coast downhill in neutral
Stay in your lane on blind curves
Watch for falling rocks and debris
Use pullouts to let faster traffic pass
Be prepared for sudden weather changes
Do
- Engine brake on long descents
- Honk before blind curves if signs indicate
- Give uphill traffic right of way on narrow roads
- Check weather and road conditions before travel
Don't
- Ride the brakes continuously downhill
- Cross the center line on curves
- Overtake on narrow mountain roads
- Ignore altitude effects (engine power, boiling points)
Pro Tips
Smell of brakes means they are overheating - stop and cool
Lower gear = less brake wear and better control
Plan stops at viewpoints rather than roadside
Important Warning
Continuous brake use on long descents causes brake fade - a dangerous loss of braking power. Use engine braking (lower gears) as your primary speed control.
Practice Your Hazard Perception
Put your knowledge into practice with our interactive hazard perception training.
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