As the vibrant colors of fall arrive, so do unique challenges for drivers in Madison. Whether it’s slippery roads covered in wet leaves, an increase in deer activity, or the early onset of darkness, fall requires extra care behind the wheel.
At Dehmer Insurance, we want to help you stay safe and ensure you’re prepared for the road conditions that fall brings. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle this season:
Fallen leaves are a beautiful sign of the fall season, but when they accumulate on the roads and get wet, they can become as slick as ice. Wet leaves reduce tire traction, increasing the likelihood of skidding or hydroplaning. Piles of leaves can also hide road hazards like potholes or debris, making it harder to navigate safely around town.
Slow down: Driving at a slower speed gives you more control if your tires lose traction.
Brake carefully: Avoid hard braking on wet leaves, as it can cause your vehicle to skid. Instead, brake gradually and give yourself extra space between you and the car ahead.
Stay clear of leaf piles: Piles of leaves can hide dangers like road imperfections, and driving through them can be unpredictable.
Fall is also prime deer mating season, and with it comes a higher risk of deer darting across roads—especially at dawn and dusk when visibility is reduced. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, deer-related accidents increase significantly in the fall.
Stay alert in high-risk areas: If you’re driving through rural Madison or wooded areas in the county, keep an eye out for deer crossing signs and reduce your speed.
Use high beams when possible: When driving at night, use your high beams in areas without oncoming traffic to better spot deer along the road.
Never swerve: If a deer appears in your path, brake firmly and stay in your lane. Swerving can cause a more severe accident, such as hitting another vehicle or running off the road.
As daylight fades earlier in the fall, many drivers find themselves on the road during dusk or nighttime when they’re not used to it. Glare from the setting sun can also be an issue, reducing visibility during peak travel times.
Prepare for low-light conditions: Keep your headlights clean and make sure they’re properly aligned to maximize your vision on the road.
Reduce your speed at dusk: It can be more difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, or animals as the light fades, so take extra care during this transition period.
Wear sunglasses for glare: Keep a pair of polarized sunglasses handy to reduce glare from the low autumn sun.
Fall is also the perfect time to check your vehicle’s health to make sure it’s ready for the changing conditions. Proper tire tread and inflation are especially important for maintaining traction on wet, leaf-covered roads.
Check your tires: Make sure your tires have enough tread to grip the road and keep them properly inflated for optimal performance.
Inspect your brakes: With the increased likelihood of slippery roads, ensuring your brakes are in top condition is essential.
Change your wiper blades: Fall can bring rain, and visibility is key to safe driving. Ensure your wipers are in good shape to handle any sudden showers.
Even with all the precautions, accidents can happen. Whether it’s hitting a deer, hydroplaning on wet leaves, or fender benders in early darkness, having the right auto insurance coverage is essential.
Comprehensive coverage: This helps cover non-collision incidents, like hitting a deer or damage from falling branches.
Collision coverage: In the event you swerve and hit another car or a road hazard, collision coverage can help pay for repairs.
Roadside assistance: Fall weather can be unpredictable. If you find yourself stranded, roadside assistance can provide peace of mind by helping with towing, flat tires, or a dead battery.
At Dehmer Insurance, we’re here to help you stay protected all season long. By following these tips and ensuring your insurance coverage is up to date, you can enjoy the beauty of fall without worry.
If you have questions about your auto insurance or want to review your policy, contact us today. Stay safe out there!
Steele Dehmer of Madison is the Agency Owner at Dehmer Insurance Agency.
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