Why Fall Weather Increases the Likelihood of Car Accidents 
Weather conditions in the fall are unpredictable. Temperatures can swing quickly between warm afternoons and near-freezing mornings. That fluctuation often creates frost on windshields and road surfaces during early hours, making it difficult to stop suddenly. Bridges and shaded roads are particularly prone to icy patches that appear without warning. Leaves also create hazards when they fall in large numbers. Once wet, they form a slick surface that can cause vehicles to skid in a way similar to ice. Drivers who slam on their brakes or take sharp turns on leaf-covered roads often lose traction. Add to this the fact that fall in Ohio is known for frequent rainfall and fog, and it becomes clear why accident risks rise. The Hazards Drivers Face in Autumn
One of the most common dangers in fall is reduced visibility. Fog is a frequent occurrence in the mornings, especially in low-lying areas and near Lake Erie. This fog can obscure intersections, traffic signals, and even other vehicles until the last moment. Glare from the autumn sun is another problem. Because the sun sits lower in the sky, drivers face blinding light during early morning and late afternoon commutes, which happen to coincide with rush hour. Fallen leaves are another challenge that many drivers underestimate. When dry, they can hide road markings and potholes. When wet, they are just as slippery as black ice. Drivers in Cleveland neighborhoods and rural counties alike may find themselves unexpectedly sliding when traveling over leaf-covered stretches of road.
Dan Ryan
Attorney
Elizabeth Fitzgerald
Paralegal
Our objectives remain clear in every case we pursue: To give every client, without delay, excuse or equivocation, our full attention, sound advice and forceful representation.
About Our FirmHow Shorter Days Affect Driving Safety
Another factor that makes fall driving in Ohio more dangerous is the change in daylight. By late October, drivers often find themselves commuting both to and from work in the dark. Darkness limits visibility, making it harder to judge distances or spot hazards in the road. Pedestrians, cyclists, and animals can be especially difficult to see until it is too late. Fatigue also becomes more of a problem during this time of year. The change to shorter days and the adjustment to daylight saving time can leave drivers drowsy behind the wheel. Drowsiness slows reaction times, and when combined with poor visibility, the result can be devastating.Steps Drivers Can Take to Stay Safe
Although fall presents unique challenges, Ohio drivers can take steps to reduce risks. Clearing frost and fog from windows before driving is essential, as is making sure headlights and taillights are clean and functional. Slowing down on leaf-covered or shaded roads helps maintain control of the vehicle, and increasing following distance gives more time to react in poor conditions. Drivers should also pay attention to deer crossing signs, particularly in wooded or rural areas. Being alert during dawn and dusk hours can prevent a collision. In addition, wearing sunglasses during commutes can help reduce glare from the low sun.
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