There’s much to love about fall — cooler weather, colorful leaves, and pumpkin spice everything.
But when it comes time to hit the road, even familiar routes can present unexpected challenges.
In fact, fall is considered the most dangerous season for drivers for a variety of reasons, including changes in weather and diminished daylight.
Let’s take a deeper look at five driving hazards you might not expect — and how to prepare for them!
1. Sudden Temperature Drops
One of the biggest surprises in the fall is how quickly the weather can change. A warm, sunny afternoon can turn into a chilly evening in a matter of hours—and that shift can affect your car more than you think.
When temperatures drop, tire pressure decreases, which can reduce traction and cause uneven wear. Rapid cooling can also lead to thin layers of frost forming on bridges or overpasses. These areas often freeze faster than regular pavement, creating slick spots that may not be visible right away.
Pro tip: Check your tire pressure regularly and give yourself a few extra minutes in the morning to clear your windshield or spot icy patches before heading out.
2. Heavy Rain After Dry Spells
After weeks of dry weather, the first rainfall can do more than just create puddles—it can make roads unexpectedly slick. During dry spells, oil, dust, and debris build up on the pavement. When it rains, all that residue mixes with water, reducing traction.
Even the lightest of rain can cause problems. The Federal Highway Administration reports that nearly 21 percent of all vehicle crashes each year are weather-related, with rain and wet pavement being the leading factors. It’s a reminder that even familiar roads can become unpredictable once the weather changes.
If you find yourself driving during a fall storm, slow down, avoid sudden braking, and leave extra space between vehicles. Early rain and temperature shifts can make both your car and the road behave differently, so staying cautious is vital.
3. Hidden Road Damage
As fall weather settles in, the wear and tear from summer heat and traffic often starts to show. It doesn’t take long for small cracks in the pavement to turn into potholes—especially as the cooler temperatures and rain move in. These imperfections can be hard to spot and even harder to avoid, especially when they’re hidden under fallen leaves, puddles, or low light.
Keep an eye on the road ahead, steer clear of standing water when possible, and take it slow on unfamiliar routes where surface damage may not be easy to see. If you do hit a pothole, check your tires afterward—even minor impacts can cause gradual wear over time.
4. School Zone Congestion
When the school year kicks off, roads near schools and neighborhoods become much busier. Morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups bring heavier traffic, frequent stops, and more pedestrians—often all happening at once. The extra congestion can make these areas much more unpredictable, especially during rush hour.
Stay alert for crossing guards, flashing bus lights, and students who may step into the road unexpectedly. Obey the posted speed limits in school zones and prepare for sudden stops. Giving yourself a few extra minutes for your commute can also reduce stress during busy mornings.
5. Morning and Evening Commute Changes
As the days get shorter, more drivers are on the road in low-light conditions. The shift in daylight can catch many people off guard—morning glare can be intense, and evenings can get darker much earlier than in the summer.
Make sure your headlights and taillights are clean and working properly, and give your eyes time to adjust when moving between bright and dim light. It’s good to consider keeping sunglasses in your car for glare and using your visor to block harsh lighting during sunrise and sunset.
Before You Hit the Road This Fall
As the season changes, it’s a good time to make sure that you and your vehicle are prepared for whatever the road brings. Whether it’s adjusting to the longer, darker commute, navigating slick leaves, or staying alert during travel, a little preparation can make the biggest difference in the long run.
Taking a few minutes now to review your current coverage and understand your options can help you feel confident every time you drive. Start exploring auto insurance options and get a personalized quote today!