It is easy to make the argument that autumn is best of the four seasons. What is not to like about cool sunny days spent apple picking, and pumpkin spice flavored everything! There is just something about that crisp feeling in the air that makes a person want to grab a sweater and head for their favorite fall destination. Maybe you will take a drive to see some spectacular fall foliage or a football game. While autumn is a beautiful season to take in the sights, it also comes with its own unique set of dangers for motorists. Do not let the change of seasons catch you off guard. To stay safe this autumn, be alert for these roadway dangers:
- Leaves. Fall colored leaves are a thing of beauty when they are on the trees, but once they fall they can become a nuisance and even a downright danger to motorists when the litter the roadways. Treat leaf-covered areas with caution. A blanket of leaves on the road can hide potholes and obscure lane lines. Reduce speed and be sure to avoid hard-breaking on leaves which can become quite slippery when wet.
- Sun glare. While summer may be history, do not pack away your sunglasses. Shorter fall days mean motorists spend more time driving when the sun is close to the horizon. Even a short commute to or from work can feel much longer when the sun’s rays are blinding the driver. A smart investment for motorists is to purchase a pair of polarized sunglasses which are better designed to reduce the sun’s glare. A sun visor can also help block the bright rays.
- Leaf “peepers.” While you may be on a tight schedule, either picking up a child from school or trying to get to or from work on time, keep in mind the driver next to you might have a more leisurely agenda—leaf peeping. Leaf peepers can be a true danger to other drivers because they often spend more time looking at the foliage than on the roadway. Keep yourself safe by making sure to always keep a safe following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Rain, fog, and frost. Fall is a season where Mother Nature shows her unpredictable side. One day can be warm and sunny and the next day can be cool, rainy, and foggy. Rather than be frustrated by the weather, a better strategy is to be prepared, and that means making sure that your vehicle is well-maintained. Take the time to have the brakes, tires and windshield wipers checked. Well-worn brakes and improperly inflated tires can make stopping difficult which can spell disaster when mixed wet or frost covered roads.
- Critters. Less daylight during the evening commute can make it difficult to spot critters. Deer and other critters are especially active in fall and can pose a real threat to an unwary motorist. Exercise caution when driving in areas known for deer especially during dusk and evening.
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries after being involved in a car crash, make sure you know your rights! The experienced Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped accident victims in Kansas and Missouri for almost two decades. Our team of seasoned Kansas City Injury Attorneys will take the time to make sure you understand your legal options. We will also treat your case with the attention it deserves. You can trust the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. to put their 60 years of experience to work for you. To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P today by calling (816) 472-4673.