Most motorists prepare well for winter driving, but not always for autumn driving. This is despite the fact that during autumn, you can encounter a number of surprises and variable weather conditions that can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Consider, for example, heavy downpours, hail, wind, low-lying sun, falling branches and leaves on the road. Moreover, it gets dark early in autumn. How can you ensure that you are well-prepared for the road in autumn? We give you some tips.
Get your car ready for autumn
Firstly, it is important that your car is well protected against the harsh and changing weather conditions. Therefore, make your car ready for autumn. There are a number of things you should check thoroughly before you set off in the car in autumn, namely:
The tyres
Check the tyre pressure and tread depth of your tyres. If both are in order, you will have much more grip on the road surface and run a lower risk of aquaplaning or skidding. It is also wise to put winter tyres on your car in the autumn. Winter tyres offer much more grip on a slippery road surface, for example in heavy rain, hail, or fallen leaves.
Windscreen wipers and screenwash
To maintain good visibility on the road during heavy rain, snow, and hail, it is very important that your windscreen wipers are functioning properly. If you notice that your windscreen wipers are leaving streaks or that the rubber feels rather dry, replace the wipers with new ones. It is best to replace your windscreen wipers every year.
Also make sure your car's windscreen washer fluid is topped up. In autumn and winter, it's best to opt for the winter variant of washer fluid, as this is more resistant to frost.
Have the battery and light checked
If your car hasn't had a service in a while, we recommend having it thoroughly checked during or just before autumn. It is particularly important to check the battery, as it is sensitive to low temperatures. If your car has an old battery in the autumn, you run the risk of breaking down at the side of the road.
It is also sensible to regularly check (or have checked) if your car's lights are working correctly in autumn and winter. Include the brake lights in the check. Finally, ensure that the headlights are properly adjusted to prevent other drivers from being dazzled.
Extra tips for driving safely in autumn
Now that your car is autumn-ready, there are a few other things you can do to reduce the chances of accidents in the autumn. Read the following tips:
Wat te doen bij extreme regen (en aquaplaning)?
A heavy downpour can significantly impair your vision. While you're allowed to turn on your rear fog lights, you can of course also use your Adjust speed and the Increase the distance to the vehicle in front of you. You must also, in case of heavy rainfall, Watch out for aquaplaning.
When aquaplaning, you are essentially driving on a layer of water, which causes you to lose grip on the road surface and makes the car practically uncontrollable. Tyres with good tread and the correct tyre pressure can help prevent aquaplaning. Should you experience aquaplaning, follow the following Steps to deal with aquaplaning.
Always switch on the lights
In autumn, you are often less visible to other road users (due to the low sun). Therefore, always turn on your lights, even during the day. This way, you will be much more visible.
Put on sunglasses in the car
As autumn arrives, it gets dark early, and you might experience glare from the low-lying sun during dusk. Prevent yourself from being blinded by keeping a pair of sunglasses in the car. This way, you can maintain visibility of the road despite the bright sun and avoid unnecessary accidents.
Get a night-vision goggles
Approximately one-third of all men and half of all women have poor night vision. Do you suffer from this too? In that case, night vision glasses with yellow lenses can offer a solution. With these, you too can continue to see well in the dark and won't have to orientate yourself by the lines or headlights of the vehicle in front.
Prevent fogged-up car windows
Never drive with steamed-up windows. This is not only life-threatening, but can also land you with a hefty fine. Get into your car in autumn and notice that the car windows are (partially) steamed up? Then immediately turn the air conditioning or heating on to the highest setting. This will reduce condensation. You can also remove the condensation with a clean, dry cloth.
Dry shoe soles before getting in
We recommend that you always dry the soles of your shoes thoroughly before riding in autumn. Wet shoes can cause you to slip off the pedals more easily, which can lead to dangerous situations.
Drive safely!
Finally, it is of course essential that you adapt your driving to the weather conditions. Rain and snow can make the road slippery and the braking distance can be longer than you are used to. Therefore, adjust your speed and maintain a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front. This way, you will have enough room to come to a standstill if you suddenly have to brake.
Would you like to learn more about safe driving? Then read our blog too Tips for safe car driving.
