Autumn is a season filled with picturesque landscapes and vibrant foliage, but it also brings a unique set of challenges to the road. As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, the risk of auto accidents increases, thus making fall the most dangerous time of year to drive. You may be asking yourself, “Isn’t winter typically considered the most dangerous season for driving?” While that assumption is generally accurate up north, the US is a massive country, and on average fall is when road conditions are the worst. In this blog post, our car accident attorneys will explore the common causes of fall driving accidents and offer insights on how to stay safe on the road during this season.
1. Adverse Weather Conditions:
Fall is notorious for unpredictable weather. Wet leaves, fog, and rain can reduce visibility and make road surfaces slippery. These conditions significantly contribute to accidents during this season.
2. Wildlife Activity:
Deer, in particular, are more active during the fall as they search for food. The increased presence of wildlife on or near roads can lead to dangerous encounters and collisions.
3. Reduced Daylight Hours:
With autumn comes shorter daylight hours. As a result, many drivers find themselves navigating in the dark, which can make it more challenging to spot hazards and respond to unexpected situations.
4. Holiday Traffic Congestion:
The fall season brings a slew of holidays, often accompanied by an increase in travel and road congestion. More vehicles on the road mean a higher likelihood of accidents.
5. Tailgating:
Following vehicles too closely is a common cause of accidents in any season, but it becomes especially risky in the fall. When wet leaves and slippery roads are added to the mix, the chances of rear-end collisions skyrocket.
6. Distracted Driving:
Distracted driving is a pervasive issue year-round, but it becomes even more dangerous during the fall. Taking your eyes off the road for even a second can result in accidents due to decreased visibility and slippery conditions.
7. Speeding:
Driving at excessive speeds for the given conditions is a recipe for disaster during the fall. The need for longer stopping distances is compounded by wet leaves and slippery roads.
8. Driving in the Wrong Lane:
Crossing the center line and veering into oncoming traffic is a common cause of head-on collisions. This dangerous maneuver is often the result of intoxication, distraction, or fatigue.
9. Reckless Driving:
Illegal passing, running red lights, and other reckless driving behaviors become even more perilous in the fall. Inclement weather and reduced visibility can exacerbate the consequences of reckless actions.
10. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs:
Failing to obey traffic signals is a common cause of T-bone collisions. Such incidents can occur due to factors like intoxication, distraction, or fatigue, and the results can be catastrophic.
11. Sudden Turns:
Making abrupt turns at high speeds increases the risk of rollover accidents, which are particularly dangerous during the fall when road conditions are less predictable.
12. Sharp Curves:
Driving too fast around sharp curves can increase the risk of losing control of your vehicle and potentially rolling over. It’s essential to exercise caution and reduce speed in these situations.
13. Uneven Roads:
Navigating uneven road surfaces can increase the risk of rollovers and other accidents. In the fall, slippery or hidden hazards become more challenging to anticipate.
Our Overland Park Car Accident Attorneys Can Help
Fall driving accidents are more common than you might think, but with awareness and responsible driving, many of these accidents can be avoided. Being vigilant, adjusting your driving to match the conditions, and refraining from reckless behaviors are crucial steps to ensure a safe and accident-free journey during the autumn season. Contact our experienced Kansas City area car accident attorneys today for a free consultation.