Attorney David J. King

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Watch out for seasonal hazards this fall

On Behalf of | Oct 1, 2021 | Car Accidents

Fall is here, and with it comes a seasonal change that may catch some drivers off guard. While it’s not yet winter and you shouldn’t have to watch out for ice until mid-November or December, the season is a bit unpredictable.

With falling leaves, there is a risk of slick areas on the road. With rain, vision is impaired and there is a higher risk of skidding or sliding. It’s more common to see your vehicle’s windows fog up in the fall, and you may also have to watch out for animals moving through their migratory patterns.

What should you do to be a safer driver this fall?

Since fall is a time when you could run into a number of unique hazards, the priority is to go over the risks and to prepare for them. Here are some things to keep in mind.

  • Cooler nights might lead to frost. To avoid crashes due to frost, always make sure your windshield, windows and mirrors are clear before you drive.
  • Animals moving southward may cause delays. Watch out for deer (as well as other migratory animals) at dawn and dusk.
  • You must be prepared for the weather. Heavy rains, sleet or snow could be possible as the seasons change, so stay prepared by listening to the weather forecast before you go out. Keep a blanket, water, some nonperishable food and other first-aid items in your vehicle
  • Night falls sooner in the fall, so be ready to drive at dusk and when it’s dark. Keep yourself safe by checking that all of your vehicle’s lights work and are bright enough for you to see at night
  • Extra traffic during the upcoming holidays, like Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas, may make the roads busier than usual. Slow down and give yourself more time to get to your destination.

All of these are some things to remember as summer turns to fall and winter. Being safe on the road is about more than just watching out for distractions or driving while sober. Be aware of what’s going on around you, check the weather, watch out for animals and give yourself more time to get to your destination. That way, you’ll have a better chance of getting there safely without getting into a car crash.

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