Check what you know
Did you know?
More info
Check what you know
Did you know?
- Autumn can often bring new challenging driving conditions with temperatures dropping, nights drawing in and leaves falling creating slippery road surfaces.
- Driving can be difficult with the lack of clear visibility from low sun and fog. When driving in fog, set your headlights to low beam.
- Allow yourself plenty of room to stop in an emergency. Keep a greater distance from the car in front.
Reduce speed when driving on roads covered in leaves or ground front as traction will be reduced. Avoid harsh braking or abrupt acceleration.
In wet weather, your stopping distance will at least double that required for dry roads.
Your windscreen must be clear to give you full visibility, so keep de-icer in the car and allow more time in the morning to clear it.
Check the condition of windscreen wipers to ensure they are effective.
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- Check bulbs and lights every few weeks throughout the year, but especially as Autumn starts.
- Check all lights are kept clean.
- There will be more demand on your vehicle battery as temperatures cool. We suggest you replace the battery before waiting for it to fail.
- Early morning frost creates icy patches on shaded areas of the road and across bridges, so reduce speed.
- See and be seen – do not leave it too late to turn lights on.
- Check that tyres, brakes, wipers, heater and demisters are all in working order.
- Use the demister and windscreen wipers to clear your windows of frost or ice before setting out on a journey.
Autumn driving hazards to be aware of
- Falling leaves create road hazards. Wet leaves can be as slippery as ice. Fallen leaves can also hide road markings and obscure hazards like potholes and bumps.
- Glare when the sun is low in the sky is more likely to be a problem at this time of year. Use the visor and wear sunglasses to minimise the sun’s glare.
- Look out for animals crossing the road, especially deer.
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This information sheet is free for employers to download and distribute to their drivers.
It may not be amended in any way | Copyright 2022 National Highways.