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With Labor Day officially in our 2024 rearview mirror and temperatures slowing, but surely, lowering, we set our sights to the fall season. Some traces of the season are already here, with major Halloween events having begun as early as mid-August, the Pumpkin Spice Latte being relisted on coffee shop menus everywhere, and leaves incrementally becoming less green. As the season changes, the rules of the road change a little bit too. These are the main ways in which your driving may change this fall season.

Maintain Headlight Ability

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, it is crucial to ensure that your vehicle’s headlights are in top working condition. While daily inspections are not necessary, periodic checks are essential. Dim or faulty headlights can significantly impair your visibility and make it challenging for other drivers to see you or for you to see other obstacles on the road. If you notice any issues with your headlights, replace the bulbs promptly to ensure you have adequate lighting. Take advantage of the remaining daylight hours to inspect your lights before the darker months fully set in.

Prepare for Chilly Weather and Wet Roads

Additionally, autumn often brings frost and ice, especially in many regions. To manage icy windows and windshields effectively, equip yourself with an ice scraper to remove ice without damaging the glass. It’s also wise to plan ahead by allowing extra time in the morning for your car to warm up and defrost properly.

Fall weather can also lead to wet roads from rain, wet leaves, and puddles. Wet leaves can create a slippery surface, increasing the risk of skidding, while puddles from recent rain pose a significant hydroplaning hazard. Drive carefully and reduce your speed when navigating through areas with accumulated leaves or standing water to maintain control of your vehicle.

Keep Protective Eyewear Handy

Moreover, as summer transitions to fall, the angle of the sun can create intense glare, especially during morning and evening commutes. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy to reduce glare and improve your visibility during these times.

When you follow these simple safety guidelines to fall driving, you prepare yourself to be safe and sound on the road at all times. It is important to always plan ahead and stay ready for what may come your way on the road, no matter the season. However, with fall, it is especially important as there are many new risks that come your way that summer does not have.