Autumn Driving: Are You Ready for Darker Nights?
As the days get shorter and the weather becomes colder and wetter, driving conditions can change quickly. Reduced visibility, slippery roads and longer hours of darkness mean it's important to prepare your vehicle and adapt your driving habits for the season ahead.
Check Your Lights
Make sure your headlights, brake lights, indicators and rear lights are clean and working properly. With darker mornings and evenings, being able to see clearly and make yourself visible to other road users is essential. Remember to use your lights appropriately when visibility is reduced.
Inspect Your Tyres and Tread
Check your tyres regularly for damage and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure. Adequate tread depth helps your tyres maintain grip on wet roads and reduces the risk of losing control. The legal minimum tread depth for cars in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around the entire circumference.
Keep Your Windscreen and Wipers Clear
Dirty windscreens, worn wiper blades and low screenwash levels can seriously affect visibility during autumn showers. Clean your windows inside and out, check your wipers for signs of wear and keep your screenwash topped up with a suitable product for colder weather.
Allow More Stopping Distance
Wet and slippery roads can increase the distance needed to stop safely. Leave a greater gap between your vehicle and the one in front, slow down when conditions deteriorate and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering movements.
Watch Out for Standing Water
Heavy rain can leave deep puddles and standing water on roads, increasing the risk of aquaplaning. Reduce your speed in wet conditions and avoid driving through floodwater where possible, as its depth and the condition of the road beneath it may be difficult to judge.
Look Out for Cyclists and Pedestrians
Darker evenings, rain and poor visibility can make cyclists and pedestrians harder to spot. Take extra care near junctions, crossings and parked vehicles, check your mirrors regularly and give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking.
Never Leave Your Car Unattended While Defrosting
On frosty mornings, never leave your vehicle running unattended while you wait for it to warm up or defrost. An unattended car can be vulnerable to theft. Instead, use a suitable ice scraper or de-icer, clear all windows and mirrors, and make sure your windscreen is fully clear before setting off.
Stay Prepared This Autumn
A few simple checks and small changes to your driving habits can help make autumn journeys safer and more comfortable. It's also worth reviewing your motor insurance to ensure your cover reflects your needs and you understand any policy limits, exclusions and excesses.
If you have questions about your motor insurance, speak to our team to review your cover and make sure you're prepared for the season ahead.
