Whether it’s to football games or family holidays, Fall is always a fun time of travel. However, it’s also a time when roads can be deceiving and weather conditions are increasing. Here are our top 5 tips to stay safe as you travel this Fall.
Don’t Break On Leaves
Watching the leaves change can make for beautiful scenery, but don’t be fooled. Wet leaves on the road can be just as slippery as ice. Wet leaves can make braking or accelerating more difficult. As the weather starts to change, remember to drive with the same alertness as icy conditions – drive cautiously, allowing ample distance between other cars and don’t brake suddenly.
Adjust To Less Sunlight
We lose about a minute of daylight each day after the Fall Equinox. Less daylight means less visibility on the road. Make sure to you’re using your headlights during dusk and dawn driving times and avoid the glare of oncoming traffic.
Be Careful On Bridges
As the weather begins to change and temperatures drop, be careful on bridges. Morning frost or wintery weather can leave ice patches that can become dangerous. This same effect can be found on shaded roads and overpasses, so make sure you are following local speed limits.
Watch Out For Deer
Autumn is also deer breeding season and are more active near roads. Deer can be seen more around dawn and dusk so be attentive when driving on roads near wooded areas. If you see an animal near the road make sure to slow down, use your headlights and watch for families.
Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Ready
Make sure you’ve winterized your car for the safest driving experience:
Check Tire Pressure.
Air pressure drops with cold weather and improperly inflated tires can cause dangerous conditions.
Take time to warm up.
Your engine needs time to warm up before functioning properly. Get a head start and let your car run for 5 to 10 minutes before hitting the road.
Update wiper blades and fluid.
New wiper blades are crucial for visibility in low light or stormy weather. Plus, consider investing in a wiper fluid that also contains deicer to keep from freezing.
Follows these tips for safe seasonal driving and always consult local laws of the road. If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, contact us for a free consultation to see how MH Law can help you.