Seasonal change isn’t just a reason to swap clothes in your wardrobe — it’s also a time when drivers must seriously consider road safety. Falling temperatures, rain, wet leaves, early sunsets, and morning fog all create new conditions that require both drivers and vehicles to adapt.
According to the AA (Automobile Association), there is a 23% increase in road traffic accidents in autumn compared to summer. The main factors are darkness, reduced visibility, wet roads, and a low-angled sun that blinds drivers during peak hours. That’s why it’s essential to prepare for the season’s challenges in advance — not at the last minute.
Car check-up: your first step towards safety
Preparing for autumn begins with a thorough inspection of your vehicle. Lighting comes first — headlights, rear lights, fog lights, and brake lights. In foggy or rainy weather, your lights are your eyes. If they’re dim, worn out, or faulty, it poses a danger to you and others on the road.
Windscreen wipers are no less important. The windshield wiper blades should not be worn out — even slightly ineffective blades can blur your view during heavy rain or at dusk, when visibility is already limited. This can be a critical factor in reaction time.
Check the level of antifreeze and windscreen washer fluid — the latter is especially important due to increased dirt and grime on the glass during autumn drives.
Wet leaves, rain, and slippery roads: the hidden dangers of autumn
The beauty of autumn landscapes masks real road hazards. Fallen leaves may cover potholes, drain covers, or uneven surfaces. Hitting them at speed can damage your Bumper or suspension and reduce steering control.
Wet leaves also reduce tyre grip significantly — much like icy conditions. Similarly, during heavy rainfall, the risk of skidding increases. According to advanced-driving.co.uk, rainy conditions lead to a 12% rise in traffic collisions, and in 90% of cases, it is the driver’s failure to reduce speed that plays the key role.
Be especially cautious around bends, schools, and pedestrian zones. Autumn demands full concentration and a cautious driving style — don’t take it lightly.
Foggy headlights: a problem often ignored
Autumn’s humid and chilly weather is a perfect recipe for condensation inside headlight units. This doesn’t just reduce your visibility — it can cause short circuits and even battery drainage if left unchecked.
How to prevent this?
- Avoid washing your car with cold water during low temperatures.
- Inspect headlamp seals and clean ventilation holes regularly.
- Use the car’s heater or air conditioning in “dry” mode to reduce internal moisture levels.
- According to AUTODOC expert: “Consider using water‑repellent car products designed specifically for headlamp housings to create a hydrophobic barrier on vents and seals. When washing your vehicle, avoid direct high‑pressure sprays, which can force water through microscopic openings.”
Tyres and battery: autumn’s weak spots
Autumn is when the risk of aquaplaning is at its highest. Tyre tread depth should be at least 3 mm — that’s the critical minimum for safe wet-road grip. Also, monitor tyre pressure regularly — cold air causes it to drop, affecting both control and fuel efficiency.
As for the battery, short journeys in wet and cold weather often prevent it from fully charging. If your battery is already weak or ageing, it may let you down just when you need it most. Keep it fully charged or have it checked by a mechanic to avoid a surprise on a frosty morning.
Low sun – a sneaky seasonal hazard
During October and November, the sun sits lower in the sky. At peak times, it shines directly into drivers’ eyes. This becomes especially dangerous when a wet road or windscreen acts like a mirror, blinding you in an instant.
To stay safe:
- Always carry high-quality polarised sunglasses.
- Adjust your sun visor accordingly.
- Slow down in areas where glare is severe — even if you know the road well.
Essential items to keep in your car this autumn
A few basic items can make all the difference:
- Spare bulbs — essential in low light or fog.
- Sunglasses — for that sudden burst of sun through clouds.
- Windscreen sponge or cloth — to tackle condensation.
- Warm blanket or fleece — in case you need to wait for help.
In addition, plan your trips to avoid driving in the darkness where possible. If you encounter thick fog, don’t hesitate to pull over in a safe place and wait it out.
Conclusion: Prepare for autumn like you would for winter
To help drivers navigate the challenges of autumn, we’ve summarised the key tips into a visual checklist. This infographic highlights six critical areas — from lighting and tyres to weather hazards — ensuring safer journeys throughout the season.
Autumn is a transitional season — the risks may not feel as obvious as in winter, but they are just as real. Ignoring basics like tyre condition, lighting, or battery health can be a costly mistake.
A prepared car is a confident one. And a well-informed, cautious driver is the most powerful safety feature of all.
Source of information:
https://advanced-driving.co.uk/driving-blog/autumn-driving-tips/
