Driving in High Winds

Wind creates a lateral force on the vehicle that pulls it toward or away from the direction the wind is coming from. The effect is most pronounced on high-sided vehicles — vans, SUVs, vehicles with roof racks or luggage carriers — and on exposed stretches like bridges, overpasses, and open straightaways. The vehicle may also be suddenly buffeted by gusts when passing large trucks or emerging from sheltered areas like road cuts, tunnels, or tree lines.

In a steady, consistent crosswind, lean slightly into the wind with the steering — a small, sustained correction keeps the vehicle tracking straight without constant fighting. The challenge is sudden gusts, which require quick but measured corrections. Overcorrecting for a gust is a common cause of loss of control; the instinct to yank the wheel sharply back to center after a sideways push can cause a swerve in the other direction. Firm grip, smooth corrections, and reduced speed all help.

High-sided, top-heavy, or loaded vehicles feel crosswinds most significantly — vans, SUVs, vehicles towing trailers, and cars with roof boxes or bike racks. Lighter, lower vehicles are generally more stable in wind. If you're towing, wind forces on the trailer can amplify sway behind the vehicle, which may require reducing speed more than the towing vehicle alone would suggest. In very high winds, high-sided vehicles may need to avoid exposed routes entirely.

Yes. Bridges, overpasses, elevated roads, open plains, and coastal routes tend to have stronger and less predictable winds than enclosed roads. The transition points are where the risk is highest — emerging from a sheltered stretch of road or from behind a large structure, or passing through an underpass or road cut between hills, can expose you suddenly to a gust you weren't prepared for. Slow down before reaching those transition points rather than reacting once you're already in the wind.

Correct inflation is the most relevant tire factor in high winds. Underinflated tires make the vehicle more susceptible to lateral forces — the softened contact patch responds less precisely to steering corrections and allows more lateral flex. Beyond inflation, a vehicle with significant tread wear may have less lateral grip for the steering corrections needed in gusty conditions. Check pressure before any journey into forecast high winds.

Yes, if conditions are severe enough. If a weather alert or forecast is calling for dangerous wind speeds, particularly for the type of vehicle you're driving, delaying or rerouting is a legitimate choice. Exposed highways, bridges, and mountain passes are the locations most worth avoiding. Check road condition reports before leaving, particularly in areas known for wind exposure, and build enough time into your journey to slow down or detour without pressure.