Deer and Fog, Winter Tires, Oh My! Fall Driving Tips Worth Remembering
Living in a state with four very distinct seasons we often have to adapt the way we do things from season to season. While the change in temperature may be subtle at times, driving in the fall can be a good deal different than summer driving. Here are some safety tips about driving that you may have forgotten since last fall.
Watch out for deer – Fall is breeding season for deer so you’ll be seeing them out and about more often this time of year. Use caution when driving, especially in areas where there are deer crossing signs, and at dusk and dawn. Deer often travel in groups so if you see one deer crossing the road continue with caution because there are probably others around as well.
Frost – With cooler morning temperatures comes the chance of frost. Take a few extra minutes in the morning to clear the frost off all of your windows, and use caution when driving over bridges, overpasses and shady areas as they are more prone to frost and can be slick.
Sun glare – Sun glare might not be something you associate with fall, but it can make your commute more difficult to deal with. Consider keeping a pair of sunglasses in your car and remove clutter from your sun visor so that it can be quickly flipped down without dumping a weeks worth of mail in your lap.
Check your windshield wipers – Fall is a great time to check your windshield wipers and replace them if they are starting to get worn. Some signs your windshield wipers need to be replaced: they make a scratching sound when dragging across the glass, they leave streaky lines on your window, and / or the rubber pieces are cracked and splitting.
Check your tires- Fall is also a great time of year to check your tires and make sure they are in good enough shape for the upcoming winter weather. By checking on this early, and replacing them if they need to be you avoid the risk of being unprepared if the first snow is early. You’ll also avoid the rush of other people who waited too long, and you’ll fine better inventory at potentially better prices.