Try out these driving tips to stay safe behind the wheel this fall.
While fall is associated with apple picking and pumpkin carving, this season is also when Texas drivers start facing more challenging road conditions. While having the right auto insurance in Carrollton, Texas is one way to protect yourself; there are other precautions you can take as well. Here are three driving tips that you should try to stay safe behind the wheel this fall.
1) Watch Out for Deer
In Texas, fall marks the beginning of breeding season for deer. This means that they will be more active now than at any other time of the year. Drivers need to be wary of deer suddenly darting into the road, especially during sunrise and sunset. To ensure that you are not startled by the sudden appearance of a deer on the roadway, make sure you reduce your speed and stay extra vigilant when driving through wooded areas.
2) Do Not Brake on Fallen Leaves
It’s no secret that trees all over the state will start shedding their leaves this season. While falling leaves might be beautiful, they pose a significant driving risk when they settle on the roadways. When leaves become wet, they create a slippery driving surface that can cause drivers to skid into another vehicle or even off the road completely. To reduce your chances of getting into an accident, make sure you reduce your speed when driving over roads coated with fallen leaves. Additionally, do your best to avoid hard, sudden braking while on leafy streets. Slamming your brakes with cause your tires to lock up and lose traction on the road. This, of course, will increase the chances of your car skidding.
3) Anticipate Changes in Daylight
During the fall, we lose about one to two hours of light a day. While this change is gradual, you may notice that your afternoon commute is now taking place after night has fallen. If this is true for you, make sure you switch on your headlights and allow your eyes to adjust to the changing light conditions before you start driving. Oftentimes, drivers can find themselves feeling groggy when driving at night. If you feel yourself falling asleep behind the wheel, then pull over and rest for a bit. This is the safest option for you and other drivers.
Try out these three driving tips to stay safe behind the wheel this fall. Want another way to protect yourself as you drive? Then make sure you have the right auto insurance in Carrollton, Texas. For help with your car coverage needs, contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency. Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.