Rain, Leaves and Deer—Oh My! Tips for Safe Fall Driving.

In many areas of the country the change of seasons is highly anticipated. Autumn brings crisp, cool air, falling leaves and Trick-or-Treaters. And it can also bring rain, fog and even ice—sometimes all in the same day.

Drivers need to be aware of the changing weather patterns, and adjust their driving techniques accordingly. The last thing you need is to get into an accident and have to file an auto insurance claim. When you hit the road this fall, remember the following fall safe driving tips:

• Headlights and taillights should be in good working order for the shorter days ahead.
• Be extra careful during before and after school hours when children are waiting at bus stops and walking to and from school.
• Be aware of and very cautious around wet leaves. They can obscure road markings and traffic lines and can also be extremely slippery.
• Sun glare often worsens in the fall, especially during the morning hours and just before sunset. Keep sunglasses in your vehicle and use the sun visor to help keep the sun out of your eyes.
• Keep your windshield free of leaves that can obstruct your vision. In addition, a clean windshield helps to minimize sun glare.
• Frost and ice may be present on the roads in the morning. Use extra caution on bridges, overpasses and shady areas.
• Make sure your windshield wipers are clean and working properly. Check your wiper fluid tank and fill it up if necessary.
• Never drive through a leaf pile in the roadway. Children like to play in piles of leaves and could be hiding or burrowing out of sight.
• Make sure your tires are in good shape for wet and slippery roads.

Remember, autumn is the season in which deer are most active and the danger of hitting one with your car is greatest. Be especially careful in the morning hours and at dusk, when deer are most active. If you do have a collision with a deer, do not approach the animal. Instead, call 9-1-1 for assistance, and call us to begin the process of filing an auto insurance claim. Deer-car collisions are covered under the comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy.

Fall is also a great time to give your car a checkup! Make sure all systems are running properly and check your tires, brakes and heating system to make sure they are ready to perform in colder, wetter weather.

What else do you do to get your car—and your driving skills—ready for fall? We’ve all probably had a near miss, but have you ever had a collision with a deer? Tell us what happened!