As the temperature drops and the leaves begin to fall, road conditions change in ways that can catch even experienced drivers off guard. Deer are more active, wet leaves can be as slick as ice, and shorter days mean more time driving in the dark. Here’s what to watch for this season—and how to steer clear of danger.
Watch for Deer on the Move
You’ll often see deer during dawn and dusk at the side of the road during the fall months. That’s when they’re foraging for food. Keep a sharp eye out near wooded areas and where deer crossing signs are posted. If you must stop, use your hazard lights to alert other drivers. A few tips to remember:
- Deer travel in groups; if you see one, more are likely close behind.
- Avoid swerving. Swerving can confuse the animal and cause them to run in the wrong direction. It also can put you in the path of oncoming traffic. Instead, slow down in a controlled manner and let the deer pass.
- Know your insurance coverage. Damage from hitting a deer is typically covered by comprehensive insurance—not liability. Check to see if your policy includes it.
Beware of Leaf Trouble
Fallen leaves may look pretty, but they can cause more problems than you might think. Here are just some of the hazards.
Wet Leaves
When wet, leaves can be as slick as ice. They can also block roadside drains, creating puddles and hidden hydroplaning risks. make sure your tires are properly inflated to help maintain grip. If you drive over wet leaves and your tires lose traction:
- Don’t slam the brakes. Ease off the gas. If you need to brake, use a light pumping motion.
- Steer gently in the direction you want to go.
- When you feel the tires connect with the road, you can proceed as normal.
Dry Leaves
Dry leaves and hot car parts don’t mix. Avoid parking over leaf piles. Your exhaust or catalytic converter can ignite them, even if the engine’s off. Also, keep leaves away from garages and undercarriages so there’s no chance that they can cause trouble.
Around Your Car
Leaves can clog air filters, radiators, and windshield gullies. Remove them regularly to prevent foul-smelling moisture buildup and potential damage to your car’s paint or electronics.
Hidden Potholes and Road Hazards
A thick carpet of leaves — or later, snow — can hide potholes, curbs, and lane markings. Drive cautiously and maintain extra distance from the car ahead. Slow down near leaf piles; kids sometimes play in them. And remember, some drivers are more focused on the foliage than the road, so stay alert.
Adjust to Early Darkness
When daylight savings time ends, you may find yourself driving home in the dark more often. Make sure your headlights and brake lights are working properly. Darkness also affects depth perception, so give yourself more space and time to react.
- Drive at a speed where you can stop within your headlight range.
- Use high beams when safe and dim them for oncoming cars.
- Watch for pedestrians and pets, especially during dusk and dawn when visibility is lowest.
Reduce Sun Glare
The sun sits lower in the sky during fall, which means more blinding glare during morning and evening commutes. Keep sunglasses handy, use your visor, and clean your windshield inside and out — streaks and dust scatter light and make it harder to see. Replace your windshield wipers as needed. If glare is intense, slow down and increase your following distance.
Handle Fog and Frost the Right Way
Foggy and frosty fall mornings reduce visibility fast. They can sneak up on your car’s windows as temperatures fluctuate. Don’t drive with foggy or icy glass. Use your defroster and a scraper or try a DIY de-icer (three parts vinegar to one part water).
- If it’s foggy, engage your fog lights to increase visibility. Don’t use your high beams; they have the opposite effect — reflecting off the fog and temporarily blinding you.
- Turn on your defroster or crack a window to balance temperatures and prevent your windshield from fogging.
- Remember: frost on your windshield means it could also be on bridges and overpasses, which freeze first. Proceed with caution.
Keep an Eye on Tire Pressure
Cooler weather means lower tire pressure. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tires can lose about one PSI. Low pressure affects traction, braking, and fuel efficiency, so check often and inflate your tires as needed.
Share the Road with School Buses
Fall also means back-to-school season. Be aware of how that impacts traffic safety and know the rules about school buses:
- Yellow flashing lights: The bus is preparing to stop.
- Red lights and extended stop arm: The bus has stopped for children.
- Always stop — never pass. Watch for kids crossing the street or walking near the bus and remember that visibility is lower in early morning and late afternoon light.
Don’t Forget Your Insurance
Even the most cautious drivers can’t prevent every accident. Make sure your auto insurance is up to date so that you have peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
Safe travels this season!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
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