Autumn Driving Hazards and How to Avoid Them

As the leaves begin to turn and the days grow shorter, autumn brings a unique set of challenges for drivers across the UK. At Carlingo in Harrogate, we're committed to keeping you safe on the roads year-round. In this article, we'll explore the common hazards you might encounter while driving during the autumn months and provide practical tips on how to avoid them.

1. Slippery Leaves

Autumn's vibrant foliage may be a feast for the eyes, but fallen leaves can pose a significant risk on the roads. When wet, leaves create a slippery surface akin to ice, reducing tyre traction and increasing stopping distances.

How to avoid:

• Reduce your speed when driving on leaf-covered roads
• Increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping times
• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on leaf-strewn surfaces
• Be extra cautious on country lanes and tree-lined roads

2. Reduced Visibility

As autumn progresses, daylight hours decrease, and you're more likely to find yourself driving in low-light conditions. Coupled with potential fog and mist, visibility can be severely compromised.

How to avoid:

• Ensure all your vehicle's lights are in good working order
• Use dipped headlights in fog or heavy rain
• Keep your windscreen clean inside and out
• Replace worn windscreen wipers to maintain clear visibility

3. Glare from Low Sun

The sun sits lower in the sky during autumn, often causing glare during morning and evening commutes. This can temporarily blind drivers, leading to potential accidents.

How to avoid:

• Keep a pair of sunglasses in your car
• Use your sun visor effectively
• Increase your following distance to allow for sudden glare
• Consider applying an anti-glare film to your windscreen

4. Increased Wildlife Activity

Autumn is a busy time for wildlife, with many animals foraging for food before winter. This increased activity, especially around dawn and dusk, can lead to more animals straying onto roads.

How to avoid:

• Stay alert, particularly on rural roads
• Reduce your speed in areas known for wildlife crossings
• Use your high beams when appropriate to spot animals earlier
• Be prepared to stop suddenly if necessary

5. Fluctuating Temperatures and Black Ice

Autumn weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures often dropping below freezing overnight. This can lead to patches of black ice on roads, particularly on bridges and in shaded areas.

How to avoid:

• Check weather forecasts before travelling
• Be extra cautious during early morning drives
• Reduce your speed when temperatures are near or below freezing
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles

6. Wet and Flooded Roads

Autumn often brings increased rainfall, leading to wet roads and potential flooding. Standing water can cause aquaplaning, where your tyres lose contact with the road surface.

How to avoid:

• Reduce your speed on wet roads
• Increase your following distance
• Avoid driving through deep standing water
• Check your tyre tread depth regularly (the legal minimum is 1.6mm)

7. Steamy Windows

As temperatures drop, the difference between the air inside and outside your car can cause windows to steam up quickly, reducing visibility.

How to avoid:

• Ensure your car's heating and air conditioning systems are working properly
• Use the demister function effectively
• Keep a microfibre cloth in your car to wipe condensation quickly
• Consider applying an anti-fog treatment to your windows

8. Darker Commutes

With the end of British Summer Time in late October, many people find themselves commuting in darkness. This can lead to increased fatigue and reduced visibility.

How to avoid:

• Ensure you're well-rested before driving
• Take regular breaks on longer journeys
• Keep your windows clean to reduce glare from oncoming headlights
• Have your eyes checked regularly to ensure your night vision is adequate

9. Seasonal Vehicle Issues

Autumn is the time when many vehicle issues that have been dormant during the summer months start to surface. Cold starts, battery problems, and tyre issues become more common.

How to avoid:

• Schedule a pre-winter check-up for your vehicle
• Test your battery and replace it if necessary
• Check your antifreeze levels
• Consider switching to winter tyres for improved grip

10. Harvest Traffic

In rural areas like Harrogate, autumn brings an increase in agricultural traffic as farmers harvest their crops. Slow-moving vehicles and mud on the roads can create hazardous conditions.

How to avoid:

• Be patient when encountering farm vehicles
• Prepare for sudden stops or turns from agricultural machinery
• Watch for mud on the roads, especially after leaving fields
• Use caution when overtaking large vehicles
  
  

Autumn driving requires extra vigilance and preparation. By being aware of these potential hazards and following our advice, you can significantly reduce your risk of accidents during this beautiful but challenging season. At Carlingo in Harrogate, we're here to help you stay safe on the roads all year round. Whether you need advice on vehicle maintenance or are looking for a car better suited to autumn driving conditions, our expert team is always happy to assist.

Remember, the key to safe autumn driving is to stay alert, adapt to changing conditions, and ensure your vehicle is in top condition. By doing so, you can enjoy all the beauty this season has to offer while staying safe on the roads.

Drive safely, and enjoy the autumn!