It’s safe to say that fall is one of the best seasons: the temperature is ideal, the trees are bursting with color, and the smell of pumpkin spice lattes is in the air. But what’s not safe are the roads that become increasingly more dangerous with every fallen leaf — especially after it rains. So, to make sure you enjoy autumn in its full form, we've compiled eight tips on how to stay safe when the roads get leafy.
Why Do Fallen Leaves Make Driving Dangerous?
When leaves pile up on the road and get wet, they cause the road to get slippery — almost like driving on ice (this only worsens when the temperature drops and the wet leaves freeze over). Asides from the slip factor, piles of leaves cover the painted roads, making it difficult to spot lane markers, potholes, and speed bumps. So how do you stay safe?
8 Tips to Help You Drive Safely on Leaves
Driving on leaves can be nerve-wracking and downright dangerous. However, here are a few tips on how you can stay safe.
Get a good set of tires. Your tires are your first defense. Ask your mechanic about which tires are best for the climate you live in and ensure you keep them properly maintained. Good tread will help to channel water away, giving you more traction.
Reduce your speed when driving on roads covered with leaves, and take your time with your turns.
Give yourself more distance than usual when coming to a halt behind another car. Just like in ice or snow, the leaves can cause your wheels to lose traction and slip.
Know how to react to a skid. If you begin to skid, do not slam on the brakes or your brakes will lock making the skid worse. Instead lay off the gas and point your wheels in the direction of the skid.
Clean your vehicle before getting into the car. Make sure to remove leaves off your windshield, windshield wipers, hood, and top of your car to ensure your visibility isn't obstructed by any debris.
Be extra cautious of children near the road. Many kids head outside when they see leaves piling up on the ground as it's the perfect time to make huge piles and play in them. Being so, keep a watchful eye out for children in residential areas and avoid big piles of leaves.
Park in a leaf-free spot. Avoid the chance of a fire hazard from the exhaust system by parking your car in a leaf-free or at least lightly leafy spot.
Avoid sudden movements. Making jerky, sudden movements with a steering wheel can cause you to hydroplane. Give your full attention to the road and plan your moves in advance.
In addition to following these safety tips for driving in leaves, also remember that in the fall, you begin to lose extra hours of daylight so will be driving in the dark more often. Remember to turn on your headlights before sunset, have your vision checked each year, and keep an eye out for vulnerable road users and pedestrians.
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