Fall is a beautiful time of year, especially in Riverhead, New York, where the trees turn crimson before losing their leaves. These colorful leaves are a reminder that the weather is changing, roadways are becoming more hazardous, and you must drive cautiously to avoid possible mishaps. 

At Lupton & Luce, fall is the ideal time to review your existing auto insurance to ensure you have the necessary coverage or if it may be time to update your policy. But first, let’s explore various conditions that make fall driving more dangerous and safe driving tips—regardless of the time of year. 

A Focus on Fall Hazards 
Drivers should pay particular attention to the following autumn dangers:  

• Falling leaves can become wet, making roadways slick. Similar to driving on ice, you should exercise extreme caution when driving through leaves. Not only can you quickly lose traction, but often leave-covered roads mean that lane markers and other road markings become obscured, lessening your driving visibility and that of oncoming drivers. 
• Deer are an especially dangerous hazard for drivers each fall. More than 1.5 million collisions occur yearly during deer season when they are migrating and mating. Many roads have posted signs warning of particularly heavy deer-populated areas. Still, they can enter roadways wherever they want, which means you should drive with extra care—especially around dusk when deer tend to be more active. 
• Weather conditions often fluctuate in fall as temperatures rise and fall. Roads can quickly change to invisible black ice, and rain and sun glare make cautious driving essential. 

Take your time when you are behind the wheel. Though you may be in a hurry to get to your destination, you shouldn’t jeopardize your safety.  

Drive Safely to Prevent Accidents This Fall 
Safety should be your priority whenever you drive, particularly as the seasons change. Keep the following safety tips in mind:  

• Watch for water and leaves. If you see leaves or large puddles on the road, slow down. Slick spots made by leaves and large pools of water can cause hydroplaning, causing you to oversteer and lose control. 
• Stay alert for deer. Scan the road as you drive, looking at both sides. Use your high beams at night—and look for the light’s reflection in their eyes. They often cluster together, so if you see one deer, there may be more nearby.  
• Wear your seatbelt. Seatbelts help reduce injuries and can save lives if you’re involved in a crash. When you enter your vehicle, put your seatbelt on before you even start it—and ask your passengers to do the same. 
• Stay off your phone. If you’re talking or texting on a phone while driving, your attention is not focused on driving, which can impact your reaction time—and increase your accident risk.  
• Give yourself space. Avoid following other vehicles too closely. With slippery conditions, it may take longer to stop.  
• Check your mirrors often. Look at your mirrors frequently to ensure you’re aware of your surroundings on the roads, including other vehicles, pedestrians, animals, construction or detour signage. 

Being safe behind the wheel is everyone’s goal when driving. However, accidents can happen, so it’s crucial to ensure you have the protection of auto insurance. We can review your existing coverage—or explore a new policy—to give you a financial safeguard if you have a covered accident. 

Protection for the Road 
Lupton & Luce can help ensure you’re safe on the road in fall—and any other season—with auto insurance that gives you needed protection if you should have a covered incident. Give us a call today to learn more.  

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.