Don’t neglect the dangers of autumn driving

Sep 23 2019      On Behalf of  David M. Duree & Associates, P.C.      Personal Injury

While fall weather in Illinois and Missouri is certainly more moderate than what we endure in the winter, it can carry some serious driving hazards. If drivers get complacent, they can cause accidents.

Fallen leaves are a hazard that many drivers don’t consider. You should always be cautious when driving through them or avoid them completely if you can do so safely. There could be something underneath them, like an animal seeking warmth or shelter. Wet leaves can be especially slippery. Moreover, leaves can cover road markings and lines.

Shorter days mean that drivers may be driving into the sunset on their commute home for the first time in many months. When Daylight Saving Time ends in early November, drivers have to deal with sunrises, sunsets and early darkness at different hours than they’ve been used to.

Fall is also the start of breeding season for deer. If you’re driving in areas populated by deer, remember that they are more active this time of year — particularly at sunrise and sunset.

Even if the temperatures haven’t dropped to below freezing yet, bridges, areas under overpasses and even shaded sections of roads can freeze, creating unexpected icy patches. That’s particularly likely in the early morning when there may be a light covering of frost.

If you’re here on our website because you’re already dealing with the aftermath of a car crash, you want to avoid another one. Even if you’re cautious about driving amid these autumn road hazards, other drivers may not be. By taking simple precautions and driving defensively, you’re better able to avoid a reckless or negligent driver.