It’s the time of year when seasonal changes can make a big difference in the way that people drive. Fall months, as well as winter months, have the potential to cause all kinds of problems on the road.
Some of the most common issues drivers see as a result of seasonal changes include earlier sunsets and nightfall, changing weather conditions, animal migrations and others. Here’s what you should know if you want to stay safer on the road this year.
Earlier sunsets
The first thing to remember about this time of year is that the sun is going to start going down sooner. It’s not uncommon to see the sun set before you even get home from work if you tend to get off around six or so in the evening.
Since that’s the case, you should remember to turn on your vehicle’s lights if they aren’t already automatic. Night driving can be more difficult, so take your time and slow down, so you can be more observant about what’s going on around you.
Changing weather conditions
The next thing to think about is how the changing weather may influence your drive. As leaves change color and fall to the ground, they create a risk of sliding on slick roads. The dropping temperature may cause black ice or slick areas on the road, too. This is why drivers should slow down and be on the lookout for areas where leaves have piled up or where wet roads may have become icy.
Animal migrations
The fall is a time when many animals start moving south for the winter. Some animals stay in the area, but they’ll be on the move around dawn or dusk as they look for food and shelter. Watch out for deer, geese and other animals as they make their way through the area.
These are three changes you may see as the seasons progress. Be aware of these seasonal changes, so that you can adapt the way you drive and get into a better position to safely get to and from your destinations without getting into a car crash.
