Fall Auto Safety Tips for Staying Safe on the Road This Season

As summer comes to an end and the fall season kicks off in earnest, days at the beach or pool have shifted to drop-offs and pick-ups at school. With buses back on the road, an increase in morning and afternoon traffic, and ever-shifting weather, now is the perfect time to revisit some key safety tips to ensure everyone stays safe on the road this fall.

Below are some important tips to make sure you are driving safely this season:

1. Slow Down in School Zones: School zones are designed to protect students, so be mindful of speed limits and be prepared to stop at any time. To keep kids safe, when you reach a school zone, make sure to slow down at certain times of the day as posted, always keeping aware of your surroundings. School zone signs are usually marked with yellow on a standard speed limit sign.
2. Watch for Pedestrians: In the fall, the days grow shorter as we shift back the clock, and it may be darker when students head to school or return home. Fall is a busy season, so always be on the lookout for children and pedestrians crossing streets, especially near schools, bus stops, and residential areas. Drive slowly and make eye contact with pedestrians before proceeding.
3. Stop for School Buses: When a school bus is stopped with flashing red lights and the stop-arm extended, drivers on both sides of the road must come to a complete stop (unless you’re on the opposite side of a divided highway). Review school bus safety laws and keep your eyes open for buses and bus stops. Make sure to leave a good stopping distance between your vehicle and a bus so they can safely slow down and park at a bus stop.
4. Prepare for Wet Leaves and Slippery Roads: Fall foliage is beautiful, but wet leaves on the road can create slippery and dangerous conditions. Fallen leaves can hide potholes, traffic lines, stop lines and other road markings that you need to see to drive safely. Be cautious when driving in areas where leaves have accumulated, especially after rain. Reduce your speed and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding. Make sure you always keep your eyes on the road and have plenty of stopping distance for your vehicle.
5. Check Your Tires: As temperatures cool down, tire pressure can drop. Check your tire pressure regularly to ensure it’s at the recommended level and your tires have good thread and are wearing. This not only improves your vehicle’s fuel efficiency but also enhances your grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
6. Be Cautious in Foggy Conditions: Fall mornings can often be foggy, which reduces visibility. Use your low beams when driving through fog, as high beams can reflect off the moisture in the air and make it harder to see. Drive slowly and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react. Approach curves and hills carefully and at a reduced speed in case there is a vehicle headed your way but not easily visible.

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