Common Fall Driving Hazards And How To Deal With Them

Fall is just around the corner, which means crisp, pleasant weather and lovely colors as the leaves turn in Maryland. However, with the new season comes a slew of fall driving hazards. These are some of the most common.

EARLIER DARKNESS

By the time fall comes, the days begin to get shorter, and thus it gets darker earlier. This can pose visibility risks for many drivers and lead to more motor vehicle accidents. Ensuring that your headlights are clean, properly aligned and well-lit can help. Be aware of pedestrians and animals on the road after darkness to avoid an accident.

FALLEN LEAVES

Leaves fall off the trees during the fall in preparation for colder weather. Often, they can collect on the road, causing slippery conditions. This is a hazard that can cause traction issues with your vehicle on the road. A big enough pile may also conceal another danger such as a large puddle after rainfall. Slowing down when you notice leaves in the street can help you safely move past them.

COLDER WEATHER

During the fall, the weather can rapidly become colder and lead to icy road conditions. This road hazard is especially dangerous when black ice exists as you can’t see it. Reduce your speed and gently ease your foot off the brake pedal if you find yourself driving in such conditions. Give extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you so you can stop more safely.

FOG

Fog can pose visibility issues for drivers during the fall. To prevent a problem that could cause an accident, make sure your headlights are set to low rather than high beams. This can help with visibility; leave extra space between vehicles as well.