Question:
Fall is upon us! Do we have to drive differently in the fall?
Answer:
Yes, we do!! Here are some easy safety concepts to keep in mind when on the roads this fall that will help you stay safe and to help you avoid a crash!
There will be rain, and lots of it! Rain reduces your visibility and increases your stopping distance so to protect yourself, be sure to increase the gap between you and the car in front of you. Instead of using the 2 second rule, increase your gap to 3 – 4 seconds. It will take your vehicle longer to stop on wet roads so increasing your gap gives you the extra space and time you need to stop safely.
- Start slowing down sooner! When approaching stop signs or red lights, start slowing down sooner. Whether because of rain or frost, the roads are often slick in the fall so it will take your vehicle longer to stop. Start slowing down sooner than you would in the summer months when approaching a stop sign, red light, or pedestrian crossing.
- Avoid hydroplaning! With rain and standing water on the roads, hydroplaning could happen at any speed. The greater your speed, the more likely you are to hydroplane, but you can still hydroplane at lower speeds as well. Proper air pressure and a good tread on your tires will help you tremendously. Also be sure to avoid driving through visible puddles whenever possible and reduce your speed when the roads are wet.
- Night driving in poor weather greatly reduces your visibility. Watch for glare, road lines disappearing, and headlights coming toward you. Make sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid and good windshield wipers as dirt, mud, and mist kicked up by other vehicles can further reduce your visibility. Never look toward oncoming headlights or other bright light sources when driving in the dark and remember to slow down and stay focussed on driving then visibility is reduced.
- Watch for pedestrians! Pedestrians can be very difficult to see at night, or even on a rainy day. Crosswalks can be difficult to pick up if you are not completely focussed on driving so be sure to stay focussed – spotting crosswalks and pedestrians in dark, poor weather is twice as hard! When in an area that has more pedestrian traffic, reduce your speed!
Fall is a beautiful season but to ensure we all stay safe, remember to SLOW DOWN and be extra careful on the roads!!
