Fall Road Safety Tips
With the changing weather and end of daylight savings time, the fall season brings on additional roadway hazards. Here are a few tips on how to avoid some common driving dangers this season:
Sunrise/Sunset Glares
- Remember that the sun will rise later and set earlier, coinciding with rush hour commutes.
- Keep a pair of sunglasses in your car and the inside of your windshield streak-free to minimize sun glare.
Dawn/Dusk lighting
- Turn your headlights on earlier to help other cars and pedestrians see you better.
- Be alert for pedestrians, especially children getting on/off school buses
- If you are walking or riding, always walk facing the traffic and in light colored or reflective clothing. A walker who is looking at the oncoming traffic is better able to move out of a vehicles path
Deer
- Be extra cautious during dusk and early evening hours when deer are more active.
- Deer travel in herds, if you see one, expect more to follow.
- The deer population on Long Island is rapidly expanding and autumn is breeding season. Be alert!
Leaves
- Increase the distance between you and the car in front of you, wet leaves are as slippery as ice
- Slow down on roads covered in leaves, they can hide potholes and street markings.
- Be aware that wet leaves can be as dangerous and slippery as ice on roadways.
Drowsy Driving
- Stay Alert: When daylight savings ends, we spend more time driving at night when it’s more dangerous
- Take care to be well rested and if you experience any signs of drowsy driving, pull over safely and take a break
Fog and Frost
- Be careful of morning frost on roads as temperatures drop overnight.
- Always use low beams in fog.