Fall is right around the corner. While this chilly season is prime for hayrides and pumpkin picking, it’s also a time when road conditions get a little tougher. From slick streets to high winds, there are several factors to keep in mind while you’re on the road this autumn.
To help you avoid spooky scares while you’re behind the wheel, here are five tips to help you prepare for fall driving.
Avoid hard braking
It can be hard to avoid hard braking because usually you don’t intend to do it. There might be a squirrel in the road or flying debris that startles you and send your foot rocketing onto the brake pedal. But it’s important to avoid hard braking when you can, especially on leaves.
During the fall, the pretty wet leaves coating the road can be extremely slippery. It’s a good idea to think of driving in the fall like driving in the winter: drive slowly and brake gradually when you need to. If you find yourself in an accident and got your car totaled, contact a collision repair service immediately.
Avoid speeding (especially when it’s windy)
Depending on where you live in the US, your area might be more prone to tornadoes. There were up to 1,520 tornadoes across the country just last year. But you don’t always need a swirling vortex to knock over your car. Sometimes you just need to be speeding at the wrong time.
When it’s windy out, it’s all too easy to lose control of your vehicle, especially when driving a van or a truck. According to a study on commercial vehicle towing accidents by Knott Laboratory, a 35-mph crosswind can put as much as 3,440 pounds of force pushing on the side of a large trailer. You can also invest in suspension lift kits if you have an SUV to maneuver better. Speeding is a surefire way to lose control when there are high winds, so be sure to drive below the speed limit and stay a safe distance away from the vehicle in front of you.
Maintain a safe distance
Speaking of staying a safe distance away from other cars, it’s good to stay at least 10 feet away from the car ahead of you when you’re driving between fall and winter. During the fall months, many cities across the country see more rainfall. This leads to unexpected slippery roads and a greater risk of hydroplaning.
Wet roads can also make defensive driving more difficult. According to AAA, unsecured cargo is a factor in two-thirds of debris-related car accidents, and while 95% of cargo is transported by ship, up to 5% is transported by truck. If you have a semi truck equipped with tradesman trailers, make sure to keep your distance, avoid blind spots, watch for wide turns, and stay focused.
Fall can be a spooky time to be behind the wheel. By driving patiently and staying vigilant, you can keep yourself and your family safe while driving this season. Additionally, should you ever find yourself in need of assistance or guidance after a car accident, consider reaching out to a car accident referral service for help.
