Keeping an eye on the danger - 5 tips for driving in autumn

In autumn there are a number of very special dangers lurking for drivers that should not be overlooked.

The Autumn has some inconvenience for motorists in store. Those who prepare properly for slippery terrain, difficult visibility and loose leaves are sure to get through the darker months of the year better.  

More perspective


In autumn, among other things, drivers have to struggle with poor visibility, because some important details are easily overlooked in the dark, when the sun is low or in fog. Thorough cleaning of the car windows outside and inside is therefore recommended for a good view. In addition, the wiping water should be filled with antifreeze-proof cleaner and the windshield wipers should be checked. If the squeegees are dirty, it can help to clean them with a soft brush and a damp cloth or to replace them if they are worn out. Even if they are a summer accessory for many: Ideally, sunglasses are close at hand in the center console, because the risk of being severely dazzled by the lower sun is currently increasing.

Sharpened eyes


Speaking of glasses: eyesight can change over time, not only in older people, but also in younger people. At the latest in the dark season of the year, however, good eyes or a good visual aid are indispensable. Anyone who feels unsafe when driving in the evening or who recognizes dark-clad pedestrians and cyclists late, should consult a specialist. Opticians or ophthalmologists can quickly determine what the situation is with regard to visual acuity and vision at dusk and sensitivity to glare. By the way, traffic experts generally advise drivers to carry out an eye test every two to three years.

Look into the night


Optimized headlights also ensure better visibility, especially in the dark. Regular cleaning, for example, is particularly useful for the widely used halogen lights, for which, unlike most xenon and LED lights, no cleaning system is required. When cleaning, no hard sponges or aggressive cleaning agents should be used, as they could blind the plastic panes. Also important, especially with halogen light: regular checking of the setting. Many workshops offer free checks and inexpensive repairs, especially in autumn. For relatively little money, there is now also the option of converting halogen headlights to LED lights that are approved by law.

Road in view


If there is generally good visibility, the road can also be read more easily. This is particularly important as the autumn weather increases the risk of slipping due to fallen leaves and soil from tractor tires. Drivers should expect heavily polluted areas, especially on country roads, and pass them with particular care. There is also often a locally limited risk of slipping due to freezing moisture. If the temperatures drop to a low single-digit level, you should always watch out for damp and possibly icy areas on the road. In general, winter tires are therefore the better choice in bad weather, even if it is not yet snowing.

Wild in sight


In autumn there is also an increased danger from wild animals. At the latest when the time change has been completed, rush hour traffic falls back into the time of sunrise and sunset. This increases the risk of accidents involving wildlife, because roe deer, deer and wild boar are looking for food at this time or they return to their quiet zones and cross streets in the process. You should therefore be careful not only when driving through forests, but also on roads along fields and meadows. If a single deer or wild boar turns up, you have to expect that more animals will follow from the pack. If a collision is imminent, evasive action is often the most dangerous reaction. In case of doubt, a controlled collision is preferable, in which the animal should be hit head-on as much as possible.

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