Fall driving can be unpredictable because of weather changes and the end of daylight saving time. To be safe and aware on the roads this fall, follow these guidelines:
- Watch out for leaves: Once leaves become wet, they can
present slippery and dangerous driving conditions. Be sure to watch for
patches of wet leaves on the road or on road lines. Dry leaves can also
present a problem to your vehicle. Avoid parking your vehicle near leaf
piles to prevent fires that could start from your vehicle's catalytic
converter.
- Stay alert on the road: The end of daylight saving time means
reduced visibility on the roads, which can create unfamiliar driving
conditions. Even on familiar roads, it's important that motorists use
additional caution and adjust their driving habits to watch for
pedestrians, cyclists and other roadway users who will be less visible,
especially during the first week of the change.
- Check your tire pressure: With frequent weather and
temperature changes, tires can expand and contract, causing them to lose
air pressure. Make sure tires are properly inflated and have plenty of
tread.
- Avoid sun glare: With the change in time you may need to
adjust to the different morning or late afternoon glare from the sun.
The glare can cause reflections off car windows and hoods and decrease
your visibility. Have a good pair of sunglasses readily available to
counter daytime glare, and consider lenses with anti-reflective coating
to reduce glare when night driving can't be avoided.
- Plan ahead for wet conditions: Fall often brings rainfall, which can decrease visibility and cause hydroplaning. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good working condition. If driving on a road with excess water, slow down and avoid sudden movements with the steering wheel or brake pedal. If you feel like you're floating, steer straight and gently release the gas pedal until you feel the tires make contact with the road surface. In an especially heavy downpour you may want to pull off the road until it's safe to continue.
- Read more from AARP! http://www.aarp.org/home-garden/transportation/info-05-2010/Five_Fall_Driving_Tips.html
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