There is a tendency to believe that only winter driving is dangerous for motorists. This is not the case, as fall also presents its share of challenges. And here, the dangers are subtle, which makes them more... dangerous. Let's look at five things to watch for.
1 - Rain
In the fall, there are often rain marathons that last two or three days. These tend to saturate water systems and in some places, significant water accumulations can occur. Consequently, when you are driving in the rain, be on the lookout for this kind of accumulation everywhere; hydroplaning is an unforgiving sport.
2 - Leaves
With the rain, the leaves that have fallen from the trees become a real danger. In fact, they stick to the road and when they are numerous, they turn the asphalt into a surface as slippery as an ice rink. The last place you want to make an emergency stop is on a surface that doesn't offer any grip. In short, you should be more wary of leaves than snow.
3 - Ice
In reference to the frequent rainfall, always look for mercury when the road is wet in the fall. This is also valid in the morning or at nightfall. With wet pavement, and large fluctuations in temperature, ice can form quickly in places where you wouldn't expect it. In short, don't be surprised.
4 - Animals
When night falls, or if you are used to leaving early in the morning for work, be aware of animal movements that tend to be more numerous on the roads at this time of year. For the best chance of success, reduce your speed.
5 - Fog
Reducing your speed is also the right thing to do when driving in fog. Fog may surprise you, but it often tends to appear unexpectedly in strategic places. If you know where the fog is, try to change the timing of your trips. Otherwise, pay attention to the weather forecast. A night in a hotel could save you a lot of trouble if the roads are covered with opaque fog.
