Autumn Driving Hazards: What to Consider

In autumn, drivers often assume that they do not yet have to contend with the risks or hazards associated with winter driving, and they often believe that the dangers of summer driving due to extensive road traffic have begun to cease. However, autumn brings with it a different set of road hazards that motorists and pedestrians alike should be aware of, and should take steps to prevent. The following are some of the most commonly cited driving hazards during the fall season, along with tips to avoid a collision. And in the event that you cannot avoid a crash, and you get hurt in a motor vehicle crash this fall, it is important to seek advice from a lawyer about your options for compensation.

Pedestrians Going Back to School 

Fall is the season when kids go back to school, and when there are school buses on the roads again and young pedestrians walking to classes and on streets waiting for school bus pickups. It is essential for both pedestrians and motorists alike to be aware of more pedestrians on school days and to take particular care in school zones or anywhere near parks, playgrounds, and residential areas, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).

Roads Slick from Fallen Leaves

 The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety emphasizes that autumn is a season in which leaves fall from trees — especially in mid-Atlantic states like Virginia — and they can become slick with rain. It is important to slow down when roads are blanketed in potentially slick leaves.

Hazards Camouflaged by Leaves 

Just as slick leaves can cause problems, fallen leaves can also camouflage hazards on the road, including potholes or debris, according to AAA. As such, it is important to drive slowly when traveling over large areas of fallen leaves to avoid an accident caused by a road hazard.

Deer and Other Wildlife

 Car accidents involving deer also tend to rise in the fall during mating season for the animals, according to ABC News, and Virginia has seen a marked rise in deer-related collisions recently. When driving in any areas where deer may run into the road, it is particularly important to “slow down and pay attention,” the ABC News report says.

End of Daylight Savings Time and Darker Evenings 

With the end of daylight savings time every autumn, there are fewer daylight hours for driving. In addition, the end of daylight savings time typically means that most Virginians are making the end-of-day commute at dusk or even in the dark. It is essential to avoid distractions and to keep a lookout for vehicles that do not have adequate lights and pedestrians on the road who may be difficult to spot.

 Contact Our Richmond Car Accident Lawyers Today

Anytime a motor vehicle collision occurs and someone sustains injuries, it is important to determine the cause of the crash and who may be liable for damages. In many traffic accidents, a negligent motorist is responsible for compensating other drivers or vehicle occupants who were injured in a collision caused by their careless or reckless behavior behind the wheel. If you have any questions about filing a claim, or if you are ready to begin working on a claim, an experienced Richmond car accident attorney at Latham & Martin can speak with you today. Contact us for more information.

Sources:

nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/school-safety/back-to-school-safety-tips-for-drivers?srsltid=AfmBOop8a6BNR_u7VdzxNqdPhSfN6xCkbtXtSSRS7_fePHVkBfMEuUoj

wric.com/news/virginia-news/rise-in-deer-related-crashes-in-virginia-prompts-warning-to-drivers/

living.acg.aaa.com/auto/fall-driving-tips#:~:text=Wet%20leaves%20can%20be%20just,and%20release%20the%20gas%20pedal