Politics & Government

PennDOT Warns of Fall Driving Dangers

Wet leaves, sun glare and morning frost can all pose hazards to motorists.

Fall is a beautiful time of year, but it can also be a dangerous season for motorists, PennDOT is warning.

In an October press release, the state agency cautioned drivers to be aware of hazards such as wet leaves, sun glare and early morning ice. 

"In addition to creating slippery conditions, we leaves can often cover traffic lines and other pavement markings," PennDOT said. "Motorists should slow down, particularly in residential areas as well as on narrow or winding roads."

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Throughout Lower Saucon Township, the sides of many two-lane country roads are also covered with leaves and debris brought down by that felled hundreds of trees. 

Autumn sun glare can be a problem for motorists during the morning and afternoon rush hours, when the sun is at an angle that causes it to temporarily blind many drivers each year.

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To help prevent sun glare from causing an accident, PennDOT recommends that motorists keep their windshields clean (inside and out), use their sun visors and "be certain to keep a pair of good sunglasses within easy reach."

Frost is a common occurrence on many mornings in the fall, and PennDOT says motorists should also be aware that it can "lead to slippery conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses that freeze more quickly than roadways."

Motorists should also be sure that their windows are frost-free before driving anywhere, and allow extra time to defrost their windows if they see that a heavy frost has occurred overnight.

According to Pennsylvania law cited by PennDOT, "no person shall drive a vehicle with ice or snow on the front, rear or side windows if it obstructs or impairs the driver's view of the road."

Some other timely tips offered by PennDOT include the following:

  • When driving on a road covered by wet leaves, allow extra following distance.
  • Be sure that your vehicle's headlights, tail lights and turn signals are all in good working order, especially since you will likely be doing more nighttime driving in the coming months.
  • Check your windshield wipers and replace them if necessary.
  • Check your tires and be sure that they have sufficient tread depth to perform adequately in snow. Do not drive on "bald" tires.

Parking on top of dry leaves can also be dangerous, because the heat from a car's engine could be enough to ignite the leaves and cause a fire.

In a separate press release this month, PennDOT officials also warned motorists of .


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