How to Drive Safely this Fall Season

As the leaves begin to change color and the days grow shorter, fall brings a new set of risks for drivers. From decreased visibility to increased road obstacles, it's important to be on guard for fall-related hazards. By taking some simple precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable fall driving season.

REDUCED VISIBILITY

One of the most significant dangers during autumn is the shorter amount of daylight. This can make it more difficult to see other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards on the road. To improve your visibility, make sure your headlights and taillights are clean and in good working order. You may also want to consider keeping a pair of sunglasses in your car to help reduce glare from the sun.

Additional driving tips:

• Avoid driving in the dark when possible.
• Keep windows and mirrors clean.
• Slow down to increase perception and reaction times.
• Be aware of any state regulations regarding turning on headlights

Watching the Road

Another hazard to be aware of during fall is an increase in road debris. With leaves falling from trees and more people out walking and biking, there's a greater chance of something falling into the roadway. Be extra cautious when driving near parked cars, overpasses, and construction zones where debris is more likely to accumulate. If you do hit something on the road, don't try to swerve around it - this could cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Instead, slow down and drive cautiously until you can safely pull over and remove the debris.

BACK TO SCHOOL

School zones, bus stops, and buses are all areas where extra caution is required when driving. In rural areas, it is especially important to be aware of these potential hazards. When approaching a school zone or bus stop, always slow down and be prepared to stop. If you see a bus stopped on the side of the road, always yield to it, as children may be getting on or off. And finally, be aware of parents who may be dropping off or picking up children.

Additional driving tips:

• Slow down and obey all traffic laws.
• Avoid distractions (i.e., texting/talking on the phone, which may be illegal in school zones).
• Use an alternate route to avoid school zones.

ADVERSE WEATHER

Truck drivers need to be aware of the dangers that wet leaves, frost, and freezing rains can pose to their vehicles. Wet leaves can make the road slippery and affect the truck’s stopping distance. Frost can also build up on the highway, making it more difficult for trucks to maintain traction. Freezing rain can create a layer of ice on the road, which can be particularly dangerous for truckers.

Additional driving tips:

• Slow down and increase following distance.
• Ensure tires have proper tread depth.
• Keep brakes properly adjusted.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable fall driving season. The information in this article is provided as a courtesy of VTS Transportation Inc. VTS works hard to help educate and inform drivers so they can make better decisions, build a culture that values safety, and manage risk more effectively. To see what additional resources VTS Transportation Inc can provide for its drivers, please contact your safety representative, or call us at (916) 666-330.