Sixty percent of the United Kingdom's extreme weather events occur during the autumn months rendering the period from September to November particularly hazardous for drivers.

To prepare you for these changes, we've compiled a list of driving dangers unique to this season. Experts from the International Drivers Association, including Dominic Wyatt, share their insights, tips, and advice.

Leaves on Roadways - As beautiful as autumn leaves are, they pose a significant risk for drivers. Dominic Wyatt, a seasoned expert from the International Drivers Association, warns, "Wet leaves on the road can be as slippery as ice. They obscure pavement markings and hide potholes and other road irregularities." He advises drivers to slow down and allow extra distance for stopping.

Foggy Conditions - Autumn is notorious for dense fog, restricting vision and creating an illusion of speed for drivers. Wyatt advises, "In foggy conditions, slow down and use low beam headlights. Your high beams will only bounce off the fog and create glare, reducing your visibility even further."

Reduced Daylight - With autumn comes shorter days, meaning, more people are likely on the roads during dawn and dusk. These periods often result in glare, making it difficult to see pedestrians, bicyclists, and nearby vehicles. Wyatt recommends, "Clean windshields, inside and out, and replace worn windshield wipers to improve visibility.”

Wet Roads - Rain becomes more frequent in autumn resulting in wet, slippery roads. Again, the advice is simple yet effective — keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, slow down and maintain a steady speed avoiding any sudden braking or steering.

Deers on the Move - Autumn marks the onset of the deer breeding season and they are more active during this time. Dominic Wyatt warns, "Be vigilant, particularly at dawn and dusk, and where deer crossing signs are posted. If a deer does enter the road, brake firmly but avoid swerving, as you could lose control of your vehicle."

Back to School Traffic - After the long summer break, autumn sees a surge in traffic with the back-to-school rush. Keep this in mind and factor in extra travel time during your commute or consider adjusting your travel times, if possible, to avoid peak times.

In an effort to enhance road safety during autumn, we've encapsulated key advice from Dominic Wyatt, of the International Drivers Association:

  • Slow down and avoid sudden braking or steering on wet roads or when driving on streets covered with leaves.
  • Use low beam headlights in foggy conditions and ensure your windshields are clean for better visibility.
  • Allow extra travel time to accommodate back-to-school traffic and be extra cautious during dawn and dusk.
  • Watch out for deer crossings and if a deer enters the road, brake firmly without swerving.

On the journey through autumn months, it's crucial to adapt to seasonal changes and make road safety a priority. As Wyatt wisely states; "Prevention is the most effective tool for road safety. Understanding the risks and preparing for them is the first step."