Sunny days and crisp nights, colorful falling leaves and the last chance to hit the road before winter's ice and snow make autumn the perfect time for a road trip. But amongst all that beauty are some hazards you should know about. Don't let one of them ruin your scenic autumn drive.
Autumn leaves piled along the roadside may be a scenic part of fall, but if those leaves get wet, they can be as big a hazard as a puddle or standing water. If you hit a patch of wet leaves, you can lose traction. Braking and steering may be difficult. Be aware of this hazard and treat wet leaves the way you would a water hazard, slowing down and braking and steering carefully.
Avoid driving over piles of dry leaves, too. They could ignite on hot engine parts, or they might be obscuring a pot hole or other hazard.
Watch for children walking to and from school, especially in early morning hours when they might not be as readily visible. Children walking in groups with their friends may be distracted and careless about stepping out in traffic. Slow down and be aware.
Fall is a time of variable weather. Sunny days can give way to frosty nights, and sudden showers may leave roads slick. Make sure your wiper blades, tires and brakes are all in good working order. If you find frost on your windshield in the morning, take the time to clean it off so you have full visibility.
Autumn is a time of greater activity in the animal world also. It's mating season for deer, elk, moose and other large mammals. A buck in pursuit of a doe may not stop for traffic. Bears are focused on ingesting as many calories as possible as the days dwindle, so are less cautious about being out at all hours. Smaller animals, too, are more active in autumn as they gather food stores. Slow down and be extra alert if you live in an area where these animals roam. Get in the habit of scanning the road ahead. If you see movement or an animal on the side of the road, decrease your speed. Warn motorists ahead of you of a possible hazard by flashing your lights three times.
