Many people declare that Autumn is their favorite season. The colors, the sweaters and the popular pumpkin spice lattes, as well as Halloween, make many people love the fall. While people may be out enjoying the changing season, they may unknowingly expose themselves to high levels of injury risk. Driving during the autumn months exposes people to a number of unique hazards in traffic.
Motorists typically need to make some adjustments to their habits during the fall to protect themselves from seasonal risks. What are some of the most significant safety concerns when driving in the autumn?
Falling leaves
There are three primary ways in which falling leaves contribute to crash risk. The first is through driver distraction. People more focused on colorful foliage than the road can make mistakes that lead to serious collisions. The second is by creating a slipping hazard. Leaves can affect the traction of the wheels on a vehicle, which can mean that drivers lose control. Finally, leaves cover up dangerous debris and potholes, which can also affect a driver’s ability to control their vehicle.
Increased animal activity
Many animals, ranging from deer to squirrels, are more active during the fall. People therefore have an enhanced risk of animal collisions on the road. They are also at risk in cases where they swerve to avoid striking an animal.
Changing light levels
Many of the worst crashes occur after dark. Reduced visibility makes it harder for people to proactively monitor their surroundings and avoid a crash. Darker road conditions also trigger physiological responses including fatigue. With the sun setting earlier and coming up later, motorists may be at increased risk of a crash caused by limited visibility or drowsiness.
Rainy weather
Fall precipitation can be dangerous because it affects visibility. Even after the rain stops falling, drivers have to worry about wet pavement. Wet roads can increase stopping distance and decrease control of a vehicle.
All of those hazards combined put people at elevated risk of a wreck during the autumn months. Those involved in motor vehicle collisions may need help pursuing compensation and holding others accountable for causing crashes, and that’s okay.
