Getting Stuck in the Mud: How to Avoid It and What to Do Next

Whether from an unexpected rainstorm in the fall or an early spring thaw that prematurely melts the snow, you might need to drive through muddy conditions. Unfortunately, if you do not know how to drive through the mud, or when the conditions are so bad the road or area should be avoided, you can easily become stuck.

Discover a few simple tips to help you avoid getting stuck in the mud, and discover what you should do if you wind up with your vehicle's wheels trapped in mud.

Specific times of the year, such as the spring, can be difficult to avoid muddy conditions. Preparing your vehicle to handle the mud is the best way to avoid getting stuck if you encounter muddy conditions.

Check the recommended manufacturer's desired PSI, or pounds per square inch, for your tires. Make sure that your tires are filled to the recommended PSI before hitting the road. Properly inflated tires will have more grip, which will help you drive through the mud. If you live in an area prone to muddy conditions, consider investing in some tires rated to handle the mud.

Do you plan to drive down a rural road, but the conditions have deteriorated quickly and you are not sure if your vehicle will make it through the muddy conditions? If you are in doubt, step out of your vehicle and check the level of the mud with a nearby stick. Avoid mud that is very wet and several inches deep, especially if your tires are older and underinflated.

After assessing the roads, if you decide to move forward, discover a few tips to help you avoid getting stuck:

• Drive at a slow and steady pace. Remain at the same speed, and if possible, drive in a higher gear, as this will allow you to maintain your speed more easily.
• Keep the vehicle in a straight line. Remaining in a straight line will help you avoid creating ruts, which are deeper tracks in the mud difficult to get out of.
• Avoid stomping on the brakes. Step on the brakes slowly. Stomping on the brakes can create ruts in front of your tires.

As you drive through the mud, avoid ruts whenever possible. If you get stuck in a rut, making your way out of the mud is much more difficult.

Despite your best efforts, did you get stuck in the mud and need to get your vehicle out? Never step on the gas to power your way through the mud as this can create a deeper rut. Instead, gently step on the gas and begin rocking your vehicle back and forth. If the mud is shallow, this is often enough to get you out of the mud. Placing mats or cardboard under your vehicles can also provide extra traction.

Unfortunately, in many cases, if the rut is too deep, you need to call in a professional for help. A tow truck can easily and quickly pull you out of the mud, which can save you several minutes or even hours of trying to get your vehicle out of the mud on your own.

When the snow thaws or after a major rainstorm, you might face muddy driving conditions. If you ever find yourself stuck in the mud or stranded on the side of the road, contact the professionals at AA Wrecker Service. We are available 24/7 to help you out of your tricky situation, so don't hesitate to get in touch.