The autumn season is almost here, which means cool, crisp weather, pumpkin and apple flavored treats, and more great things to look forward to. However, it also means a new set of seasonal driving hazards that are completely different from the ones that you’ve gotten used to over the summer. This is the time of year to be mentally preparing yourself for the way that the roads are changing so that you can stay safe and drive with confidence. Here are some of the things to be looking out for as fall begins!
Kids
School has started up again, which means that your local schoolchildren are back out on the roads and sidewalks, something that’s absolutely crucial to be careful of while you’re driving. Most kids don’t know yet that they have to pay attention to cars, so keep your eyes peeled and remember to drive a little slower, especially in the morning and afternoon. You should also never pass a school bus that’s stopped and has its stop sign out– it’s against the law!
Wildlife
The autumn is an active time for many animals as they prepare for the winter months, and some of them, like deer, can be very dangerous, potentially damaging your car and hurting you if you hit one. As you’re driving, always keep a lookout both in the road and on the sides of the road for any animals, and slow down if you see one just in case they bolt into the road.
Wet Leaves
Wet leaves are a sure way for your car to slip or slide while driving, which is why it’s always recommended never to drive over large patches of leaves, even if they look dry. A pile can appear dry on the surface and still be wet underneath, so when you’re on the road, avoid going over large areas of leaves whenever you can help it.
Sun
Not only does the sun start setting earlier in the day at this time of year, but the angle of the sun in the sky changes, meaning that glare is a lot more intense during fall and winter. Make sure that you always have a pair of sunglasses handy during this season, and do your best to keep your windshield clean, since streaks will reduce your visibility even further.
If you keep these driving tips in mind as the fall begins, you can stay a lot safer on the road and reduce driving risks! It’s also a good idea to get your vehicle serviced at this time of year so that it’s ready for the colder months. If you’re in need of an appointment, you can schedule one with our service center today!
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