Just because the weather is milder in the autumn months doesn’t mean drivers should put their guard down when driving. Accidents can occur at any time, and each season has its own set of risks that could lead to a collision. Here’s why car accidents happen in the fall and what you can do to avoid them.
Common Reasons Why Car Accidents Happen in the Fall
Understanding these five common reasons why car accidents happen in the fall and tips to avoid them can help keep you safe on Michigan roadways.
1. Reduced Daylight Hours
The days are shorter in the fall months, a process further exasperated by the time change in November. Nighttime driving can increase the likelihood of an accident because, according to CARFAX, half of the collisions in the US occur in the dark.
If possible, leave work earlier or work from home on your scheduled late shifts. Also, drivers should ensure that their headlights work properly to help light the way on dark roads.
2. Heavy Traffic
Traffic trends change during the fall months due to students and teachers returning to school. Traffic will be heavier due to more cars on the road during peak hours. Stop-and-go traffic paired with road rage over longer commute times can increase the likelihood of an accident occurring.
Drivers should give themselves extra time to accommodate for a long commute. Leave extra space between cars in stop-and-go traffic to avoid hitting the vehicle in front of you if rear-ended.
3. Slippery Surfaces
Slippery surfaces caused by rain or leaves in the roadways can increase the braking time needed to fully stop your vehicle. In fact, driving over leaves can be as slick as ice, according to CARFAX.
Avoid collisions by reducing your speed and giving yourself extra braking time when driving on slick surfaces.
4. Sun Glare
The sun’s beams are a powerful force and are actually stronger during the fall and winter due to the sun being lower in the sky. A bright, sunny fall day could increase the chance of an accident due to sun glare, making it difficult to see traffic lights, vehicles, and signs.
Drivers can prevent a collision caused by sun glares by keeping their windows clean or wearing polarizing sunglasses while driving. Tinted windows can also help combat visibility issues caused by the sun’s glare.
5. Deer Crossing
The number of car accidents involving deer increases in the fall due to the deer mating season, which goes from October through December. Other factors, like daylight savings time, can contribute to deer-related accidents because of the earlier sunset time.
Drivers should remain alert at the peak times deer are active, early morning and night, and monitor roadways for any deer crossing signs. If you do encounter a deer, don’t swerve to avoid it. Instead, drivers should brake to maintain control of their vehicles.
Drivers should remain vigilant at all times when behind the wheel. However, understanding the potential risks of the season can help further avoid getting into an accident this fall.
About Michigan Auto Body Shop, Pole Position Auto Body
At Pole Position Auto Body, safety is our top priority. Pole Position Auto Body is an I-CAR Gold Class Certified facility that’s been repairing Metro Detroiters’ vehicles for over 3 decades. We follow all OEM procedures and utilize the current technology and repair techniques to return your car to its pristine, pre-accident condition.
