Fall is a time when road and weather conditions make getting there a little tougher. Here are a few tips to keep you safe during fall driving months. We talk about this in our classroom defensive driving course in Buffalo, NY.
Avoid Glare
The first 15 to 45 minutes after sunrise and before sunset can make it more difficult driving due to sun glare. That’s because the sun is perfectly aligned with east/west roadways. The solution is to keep a clean windshield and use a good pair of anti-glare sunglasses. One problem with glare is that is becomes difficult to see any great distance. This makes scanning ahead more difficult. As a result, our reaction times suffer.
Be Rain Aware
This is especially in the Northeast, increased rainfall is more likely during the fall. This increases the risk of hydroplaning. This reduces our traction. The more water there is on the road, the more quickly we will lose traction. But even a thin layer of water can cause hydroplaning. Although anti-lock-breaks are common nowadays, we still need to be careful when we drive in the rain.
Bridges and Overpasses
When the temperature drops, morning frost can leave icy patches on bridges, overpasses and shaded spots on the road. The secret is to slow down. When a bridge gets wet from frost we may encounter the same conditions we do when it rains. Hence, we could hydroplane.
Animals
Deer mating season begins in the fall. Thus, deer are more active at this time. This is particularly true between sunset and sunrise. Be extra careful on dark rural roads. In certain Areas deer seem to be everywhere. And, I’m sure most of us know someone who hit a deer, including ourselves.
Wet Leaves
Drive slowly through wet leaves. The secret is to avoid hard braking. Wet leaves can make for very slippery conditions. And, if the temperature drops below freezing, those wet leaves may become icy, making for even more slippery conditions. Love to Know addresses the issue of leaves on the road. You may wish to read their article.
Make sure your fall driving is safe driving.