It’s always a shock to the system when we set our clocks forward or back for daylight savings time. Now that we’ve set our clocks back for Fall, days are going to be shorter. This means less daylight and more darkness. You’ll probably be driving to work in the dark and driving home in the dark as well. Leaves will be falling, making pavement markings unclear in places. Welcome to Fall driving. Weather is unpredictable in the Fall. Rain causes slick roads. Cold, moist mornings may lead to fog. And then comes the frost. We all know how annoying that can be. Be extra careful on bridges, overpasses and shaded areas where frost can accumulate. There will be more pedestrian traffic with early holiday shopping (I have mixed feelings about those people who shop early and make the rest of us look bad, so drive as you wish). Actually, more people will likely be jogging and walking their dogs before and after work, which will now be dark.
So, plan to slow down. It’s called Fall Back. So just try to be laid back. Leave earlier if you can (so it’s good and dark). Leave time to clean your windshield and windows for good visibility. In addition to an emergency kit, pack a few other useful items such as a flashlight, blanket, umbrella, ice scraper and even a pair of sunglasses for sunrise and sunset glare. Drive slower and be cautious for stopped cars, accidents and pedestrians. And don’t forget about the fall stirring up the critters. There will definitely be more suicidal squirrels on the road, gathering nuts or doing whatever they do. You just know they’re going to dart back across the road. That, you can anticipate. While the changes in weather, you cannot.
Until next week…
Daun Thompson
Writer / Comedienne / Artist
Fall Driving – Comedy Defensive Driving