As summer comes to an end and the air begins to turn crisp many of us are eager to venture out and admire the vibrant red, orange, and yellow fall foliage. Like all seasons, driving in the Fall presents its own challenges. Read on for our five essential tips to ensure an enjoyable and safe season while out on the road.
Fall weather has proven to be unpredictable. Sunny mornings can turn into rainy afternoons and temperatures can dip or rise suddenly. Before you head out, check the forecast for your intended route and destination to plan accordingly. Don’t forget to check the fog, which can be more common during this time of year and can reduce visibility in mountainous or heavily forested areas.
If you’re planning on heading out on the road, make sure to prep your vehicle using these tips to ensure smooth and safe travel. Ensure your tire pressure is correct. This varies by vehicle, but most fall between 28 and 36 PSI. Check that your tires have adequate tread since wet leaves can be as dangerous as ice. Check your windshield wipers and top off your fluid levels. This may also be a good time to test your heating and defrosting systems, which will be essential for chillier mornings.
Tip: If you car’s A/C is not working properly, your defroster won’t function correctly
As we mentioned above, fallen leaves are beautiful to look at, but can create hazardous driving conditions. When wet, fallen leaves create slippery conditions. Make sure you are slowing down when driving on leaf covered roads. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for road imperfections or potholes that may be blanketed in leaves. As always, use caution when driving on curvy roads where traction can be hard to maintain.
Depending on your area, increased wildlife, especially deer, are more common during this time of year. Use extra caution during dusk and dawn when animals are more likely to be on the move. Always be prepared to slow down or stop if an animal happens to cross your path and use your high beams accordingly to improve visibility while out when it’s dark.
Tip: If you are driving is foggy conditions, use your low beams for increased visibility and to make your car more visible to others
Even if you’ve properly prepped your vehicle for the season, it is always smart to keep an emergency kit somewhere in your vehicle. An emergency vehicle kit can vary depending on your travel plans and needs, a few essentials include:
Flashlight
Spare/flat tire repair kit
Jumper cables
First Aid Kit
Blanket
Water
Before heading out on any travel, it is always a good idea to stay connected by bringing your mobile device and letting someone know your travel plans in advance in case of an emergency. By following these tips you’ll be well prepared to set out on your next Fall adventure and enjoy the magnificent colors and seasonal beauty that Fall has to offer!