Autumn Driving Tips

Road Safety Week – taking extra care on the road this Autumn.

There are many things to love about autumn; the crunchy leaves, the warm hues of nature’s natural colour change and hot pumpkin spiced lattes. But the arrival of autumn also brings some hazards to our roads. During Road Safety Week we take a look at the hazards that come along with Autumn and how to be safe on the roads.

Be careful of the: Slippery Roads

• As nice fallen leaves may look, when wet they can become extremely slippery. They can also cover up road markings or conceal other hazards.
• Autumn coincides with deer breeding season, so if you are driving in wooded/rural areas or around Richmond Park, be extra cautious.

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Be careful of the: Low Sun

• In autumn’s rush hour, the sun is at that stage where it is not down completely just yet but it is still quite low. This can have a big impact on your vision which can become very dangerous for you and others around you. Use your visor to create some shade for your eyes.
• Keep the inside and the outside of your windscreen clean to reduce any glare and reduce the chances of creating condensation.

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Be careful of the: Rain

• Rain can reduce your visibility when driving and increases the stopping distance. It is therefore vital to keep a safe speed and advisable to double the distance between you and the car in front.
• A regular check of your lights and the conditions of your windscreen is also advisable.
• When driving, should the steering begin to feel light or unresponsive due to rain or standing water, ease off the accelerator and gradually slow down.
• Do not attempt to cross deep water. Vehicles can float in as little as 2 feet of standing water.

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Be careful of the: Fog

• Fog is one of the most dangerous weather conditions to drive in.
• Leave a distance of at least 3 seconds between you and the car in front. Should the car in front of you stop suddenly, this distance will give you enough time for you to stop in time.
• Use your headlights and fog lights to increase your visibility to others on the road.
• Wind down your window at a junction and listen for traffic.

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