Many Ohio residents welcome the arrival of fall, happily anticipating the season’s beautiful colors and crisp, cool weather. However, the beauty of fall comes with its share of risk and danger.
Contrary to what you might believe, winter isn’t the most dangerous season for drivers – at least according to a recent survey. That honor goes to fall, with 72% of drivers considering it the most accident-prone season.
Hidden hazards of autumn driving
Fall brings a host of environmental changes that can catch drivers off guard. Below are five common car accident risk factors during fall in the Buckeye State:
- Wet leaves: Fallen leaves can create slippery road surfaces, similar to driving on ice.
- Shorter days: Shorter daylight hours mean more driving in the dark, which can impair visibility.
- Deer activity: Deer become more active during mating season, especially at dawn and dusk, increasing the chance of collisions.
- Frost, fog and rain: Poor visibility from early frost, fog and rain can lead to reduced visibility and overall hazardous driving conditions.
- Weather changes: Autumn in Ohio can bring changes in weather, including early snow, which can catch drivers unprepared. The fluctuating temperatures may also cause unexpected icy patches, especially on bridges.
- Back-to-school traffic: Increased traffic from school buses and student drivers adds to road congestion and the risk of pedestrian accidents.
- Sun glare: The sun is lower in the sky during the fall months, which can cause a blinding glare during morning and evening commutes.
The delicate fall weather can also make drivers more complacent and less vigilant. This false sense of security can lead to delayed reactions and poor decision-making behind the wheel.
A seasonal safety reminder
As the leaves change color, let it remind you to adapt your driving habits to the season. Remember, safe driving is a year-round commitment that requires awareness, vigilance and respect for the road.
If you do get into a car accident this fall, keep a cool head and seek immediate medical assistance. An experienced legal professional can also assist you with insurance claims and help ensure you receive rightful compensation so you can continue enjoying the fall season.
