Safety Guidelines for Driving in the Fall
The seasonal transition from summer to fall impacts multiple aspects of our day-to-day lives. Being aware of the seasonal changes and their effects on your life is very important, especially on the roadways. With the beauty of fall also comes unpredictable weather, puddles, and wet leaves, school buses on the roads, and small kids walking to school. Overall, your daily commute will be noticeably different. Staying alert and focused on your surroundings as a driver will be crucial during autumn. Below is a list of safety guidelines to follow when you get behind the wheel this season.
Wet leaves
- One of the hallmarks of autumn is the changing colors of tree leaves, but what is less acknowledged is the amount of leaves that fall off trees and litter the ground. Fallen leaves can cover up traffic lines, shoulders, and potholes overnight. Another important consideration is that trails of wet leaves can become icy, which can lead to hazardous slips. This is a bigger concern for U.S. regions that see substantial snowfall in fall. Regularly check your tire tread to ensure that your car can safely protect you in the event of an accident.
Vehicle Maintenance
- The tire tread of your car is the first form of contact your vehicle makes with the road, so routine checks are necessary during the more cold, rainy, and wet times of the year. Keeping your tire tread in good condition makes your vehicle better equipped to handle slippery surfaces. In autumn, stay on top of checking and topping off your fluids, with extra focus on windshield washer and oil fluids. Additionally, the effectiveness of your car battery will decrease in the cold weather, so it is recommended to examine your battery and see if it is due for a replacement.
School Zones
- There is no way to stress the necessity of obeying designated school zones as well as speed limits, particularly near daycares, playgrounds, schools, and bus stops. Safe driving practices should be emphasized even more strictly during the school year, so take your time on your commute and keep a reasonably slow speed.
Daylight Savings
- The autumn equinox equals less sunlight per day. Less sunlight means frosty windshields, blinding glares from the sun, and increasing foggy weather. Keeping a pair of sunglasses in your vehicle is recommended, as the otherwise blinding sunny glares can instantly blind those who look and leave them disoriented for a few seconds. Having your eyes off the roads even for just a few seconds is all it can take to get into an accident.
Watch YouTube Video: Fall Driving Safety Tips. This video provides some tips on how to drive safely during the fall season.
Pittsburg Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Pittsburg personal injury lawyer. Car accidents can leave you with a serious injury, even if you felt okay initially after the collision. If you have been injured in an auto accident and would like to know more about your options moving forward, call me at (925) 428-5220 or (800) 404-5400 to receive my free and friendly advice.
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Image: By “Peter Aschoff” – Unsplash.
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