Five Crucial Fall Driving Tips
You’re often given advice about how to drive in the snow and the rain, but what about fall weather?
Poor driving habits may lead to an eventual accident, which then negatively impacts your insurance rate. Before you see your rates go up, follow these tips:
- Be aware of leaves
After it rains, leaves create a slippery surface across the pavement. Later in the day, this wet area freezes over, turning into a very thin ice sheet. Prepare for each instance by slowing down and giving yourself a greater stopping distance.
- Be mindful of changing weather conditions
Fall could mean bright mornings, foggy evenings, and darkness during your commute. You should be ready to anticipate:
- Fog – Drive with your low-beams on.
- Frost – Drive slowly, especially around overpasses and bridges.
- Black ice – Be careful around corners and again, around overpasses and bridges.
- Sun – Always have a pair of sunglasses on hand. Without them, from the sun makes it difficult to fully see other drivers and pedestrians.
- Rain – Make sure your windshield wipers don’t leave streaks. As you drive, give yourself enough stopping distance.
- Be alert to deer
This time of year, you’re likely to have increased encounters with deer in or near the road. Drive slowly when you notice them, and give enough time for all to cross.
- Be prepared to drive in the dark
The amount of daylight hours shorten in the fall. This means, at least once every day, you’ll have to drive in the dark. Prepare for a reduced field of vision, and watch out for other motorists, pedestrians, and animals.
- Have an emergency kit ready
Breakdowns and getting stranded due to the weather may happen to anyone, so be prepared for what could happen. A good tip is to have an emergency kit ready in your car. Make sure it includes:
- A flashlight
- Blanket
- Nonperishable food
- Flares
- First aid
- Jumper cables
- Other basic tools
Good driving habits can have a strong influence on your auto insurance policy. Whether you’re looking to explore this type of discount or switch your coverage, learn about all the options from Ion Insurance. Contact Ion Insurance today at 203.439.2815.
