Driving Safety This Fall: How Changing Weather and Daylight Affect Your Commute

BLITZ LAW GROUP
5 days ago
3 min read

As the vibrant colors of autumn arrive, so do new driving challenges. The shift in seasons brings a host of hazards, from slippery roads to reduced visibility, that can increase the risk of an accident. While many drivers are cautious in winter, they often overlook the unique dangers of fall. Practicing fall driving safety is crucial for protecting yourself and others on the road.

Rainy city street lined with parked cars and orange autumn trees. Wet pavement reflects buildings and red traffic lights, creating a moody scene.

The Dangers of Changing Daylight

As the days grow shorter, a significant portion of our daily commute happens in the dark. This is especially true after Daylight Saving Time ends, when more people are driving home from work in darkness. According to the National Safety Council, about half of all U.S. accidents occur in the dark, even though there are fewer drivers on the road.

Sun Glare: The sun sits lower in the sky during the fall, leading to intense glare during sunrise and sunset—prime commuting times. This can temporarily blind a driver, making it difficult to see pedestrians, other cars, or road hazards.
Reduced Visibility: Darkness, combined with fog or rain, can severely limit your depth perception and peripheral vision. It also makes it harder to spot a pedestrian or cyclist, particularly if they are wearing dark clothing.

Weather-Related Hazards You Need to Know

Autumn weather is unpredictable, and it can turn a routine commute into a dangerous one in an instant.

Wet Leaves: Those beautiful fall leaves can be as slick as ice when wet. Piles of leaves can also hide potholes or other road damage. Braking on a patch of wet leaves can more than double your stopping distance, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Early Morning Frost: The first frosts of the season can create black ice on roadways, especially on bridges and overpasses. Because it is nearly invisible, black ice is one of the most dangerous hazards a driver can encounter.
Fog: Fall mornings are often accompanied by dense fog, which dramatically reduces visibility. If you find yourself in foggy conditions, slow down, use your low beams, and increase the distance between you and other vehicles.

Tips for Practicing Fall Driving Safety

By taking a few simple precautions, you can greatly reduce your risk of a fall-related accident.

Adjust Your Speed: Always drive slower than the posted speed limit in adverse conditions like fog or rain.
Turn on Your Lights: Use your low beams during the day, especially in fog or rain. This not only helps you see the road but makes you more visible to other drivers.
Check Your Tires: Colder temperatures cause tire pressure to drop. Check your pressure regularly to ensure proper traction.
Watch for Wildlife: Fall is mating season for deer, and they are more active at dusk and dawn. Be extra vigilant in wooded areas.

If you or a loved one are injured in a car accident this fall due to another driver's negligence or an unsafe road condition, you may have a legal claim. Our team at Blitz Law Group is here to help you navigate this complex process.