Bonnet flying open when driving can be very dangerous and requires quick thinking and good reflex to avoid a major accident. It is unlikely for bonnet to flip open at low speeds. It happens when the vehicle has attained enough speed to make the force of wind to lift the bonnet.
1. Forgetting to close the bonnet properly after checking the engine or after a maintenance can cause bonnet to open on motion.
2. A bad bonnet mechanism that is not latched properly can cause bonnet to fly open too.
1. Do not panick but know that you don't have the luxury of time to make a correct decision.
2. Within split seconds, use the side mirrors, rear view mirror and your peripheral vision to check your back and sides in case there is an oncoming vehicle.
3. Use the gap under the opened bonnet to have a view of the front in order to remain on the road.
4. When you are certain that it is safe to brake, do so.
The reason why it is important to make a correct decision within a second is that it is better to avoid the bonnet hitting the windshield. If this happens, it can smash it and it can also cause damage to the bonnet and the body of the vehicle.
When bonnet shock absorber is present and working, it will slow down the opening of the bonnet and give the driver time to react before the bonnet smashes into the windshield. If the shock absorber is not present or is weak, the driver is caught unawares and his reaction time will be too high to save the situation. In this case, the bonnet smashes the windshield fast.
One thing that makes it very dangerous is that it is accompanied by a loud bang which can throw a driver who has never experienced it off guard.
1. Always check to ensure that the bonnet mechanism is working and properly lubricated.
2. Always make sure that the bonnet is closed before you drive.
3. Bonnet shock absorber should be present and it should be in a good working state.
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