Stay Safe on the Roads This Fall: Essential Tips from RHD Legal

As the fall season arrives in Wake Forest, North Carolina, we are greeted with cooler temperatures, vibrant colors from changing leaves, and the anticipation of the holiday season. While fall is a time for many to enjoy outdoor activities and take in the beauty of the season, it’s also a time when road safety becomes increasingly important. At RHD Legal, we want to ensure that our community stays safe during this time of year.

Driving during the fall comes with its own set of challenges that many may overlook. Whether it’s dealing with wet leaves on the road, navigating through foggy mornings, or adjusting to shorter daylight hours, the autumn season can create hazardous driving conditions. It’s crucial to remain vigilant and take extra precautions to ensure you, your passengers, and others on the road remain safe.

Why Fall Brings Unique Driving Hazards

Several factors contribute to the increased risks that drivers face during the fall. Let’s take a look at some of the most common seasonal hazards:

1. Fallen Leaves
   One of the most beautiful aspects of fall—the colorful leaves—can also be one of the most dangerous. When wet, fallen leaves can become slick and cause vehicles to lose traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, large piles of leaves can obscure road hazards, such as potholes, debris, or uneven surfaces, making it difficult for drivers to navigate safely.

   To stay safe:

   • Slow down when driving through areas with heavy leaf coverage.
   • Avoid driving over large piles of leaves, as they could be hiding hidden dangers.
   • Keep your tires properly inflated to maintain better traction in slippery conditions.
2. Reduced Daylight Hours
   As fall progresses, the days get shorter, and the sun sets earlier. For many, this means driving in the dark on their way home from work, school, or evening activities. Reduced visibility during dusk and nighttime increases the chances of accidents, especially in areas with limited street lighting.

   To improve visibility:

   • Ensure your headlights are clean and in good working condition.
   • Use your high beams when driving in rural or poorly lit areas, but remember to dim them when approaching oncoming vehicles.
   • Be extra cautious of pedestrians, cyclists, and wildlife, as they can be harder to see in low-light conditions.
3. Fog and Frost
   Fall mornings often come with fog or frost, both of which can reduce visibility and make the roads more dangerous. Fog can cause significant visibility issues, especially in low-lying areas. Frost on the road, particularly during early mornings, can create slick conditions that increase the likelihood of losing control of your vehicle.

   To stay safe:

   • Use your fog lights or low beams when driving in foggy conditions. Avoid using your high beams, as they can reflect off the fog and reduce your visibility even further.
   • Allow extra time to defrost your windshield and windows before heading out. Having a clear view is essential for safe driving.
   • Drive at a slower speed when the roads may be frosty, especially on bridges and overpasses, which tend to freeze more quickly than other surfaces.
4. School Traffic and Buses
   With students returning to school, the fall season means more traffic around school zones, crosswalks, and bus stops. It’s essential to be extra cautious when driving through these areas, as children can be unpredictable and may suddenly run into the street.

   To avoid accidents:

   • Always slow down in school zones and be prepared to stop at crosswalks.
   • Watch for flashing lights on school buses, and remember that it’s illegal to pass a school bus when its stop sign is extended.
   • Be mindful of crossing guards and follow their instructions to keep children safe.
5. Wildlife on the Move
   Fall is also mating season for many animals, including deer. This means that wildlife is more active and more likely to be crossing roads, especially in rural or wooded areas. Collisions with deer and other animals can cause significant vehicle damage and even lead to injuries for drivers and passengers.

   To prevent wildlife-related accidents:

   • Be extra cautious when driving through areas with wildlife crossing signs.
   • Slow down during dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
   • If you see one deer, expect that others may be nearby, as they often travel in groups.
   • Use your high beams when appropriate to better spot animals in the distance.

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall Driving

In addition to adjusting your driving habits for fall, it’s important to ensure your vehicle is properly prepared for the seasonal changes. Here are some tips to keep your vehicle in top shape:

1. Check Your Tires
   As the weather cools, tire pressure tends to drop, which can affect your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency. Make sure your tires are properly inflated according to your manufacturer’s recommendations. Additionally, check the tread on your tires to ensure they have enough grip for slick or wet roads.
2. Inspect Your Brakes
   Fall driving often involves sudden stops—whether it’s to avoid hitting a deer or stopping for a school bus. Make sure your brakes are in good working condition and aren’t showing signs of wear. If you notice any squeaking, grinding, or difficulty stopping, it’s time to get your brakes checked.
3. Replace Your Windshield Wipers
   Rain and fog are common during the fall, and you’ll want to make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition to handle the increased moisture. If your wipers leave streaks or struggle to clear your windshield, it’s time to replace them.
4. Check Your Vehicle’s Lights
   With shorter daylight hours, you’ll be relying more on your headlights, taillights, and brake lights to ensure visibility. Make sure all of your lights are functioning properly and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
5. Prepare an Emergency Kit
   It’s always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, especially during the fall and winter months. Include items such as a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, a blanket, non-perishable food, water, and jumper cables. In the event of an accident or breakdown, having these supplies on hand can make a significant difference.

What to Do if You’re Involved in an Accident

Even with all the precautions, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in a car accident this fall, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect yourself and your legal rights.

• First, check for injuries and call emergency services if necessary.
• Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible, and exchange information with the other driver.
• Document the scene by taking photos of the damage, road conditions, and any contributing factors like fallen leaves or poor visibility.
• Contact your insurance company to report the accident, and consider seeking legal advice if the accident resulted in significant damages or injuries.

At RHD Legal, we understand how stressful an accident can be, especially during a busy season like fall. Our experienced Raleigh and Wake Forest personal injury lawyers are here to help you navigate the aftermath and ensure you receive the support you need.