Guide: These are the pitfalls in autumn
IT'S GETTING RUDDY With shorter days and falling temperatures in autumn, the risk of accidents for car, motorcycle and bicycle drivers increases. The TCS gives tips on how to behave to stay safe on the road.
Autumn has it all. Poor visibility, the risk of skidding and wild animals require road users to be more attentive and to drive appropriately. Those who drive with only daytime running lights on despite poor visibility should be aware that most cars are unlit at the rear. Since the automatic light system reacts exclusively to differences in brightness, if visibility is impaired by fog, smoke, snow or rain, you should switch on the low beam yourself despite the automatic function.
Annoyance rear fog lights
Fog lights and rear fog lights may only be used if visibility is less than 50 meters due to fog, driving snow or heavy rain. Unnecessarily switched on rear fog lights dazzle following traffic.
Cyclists use their lights best as soon as it is dusk or visibility is poor. E-bikes and e-scooters must use their lights both during the day and at night. TCS recommends that pedestrians wear bright or reflective clothing as soon as they are out and about.
Wild animals change the lane
However, autumn is also the time of year when the risk of unexpectedly encountering wildlife on the roadway is highest. To reduce the risk of collision, it is important to adjust your speed and be ready to brake at all times. If an animal is on the road, you should turn on your dipped headlights and honk to scare it away. Dangerous evasive maneuvers are not advisable. If, despite these precautions, a collision occurs, the accident should be reported to the police. The police will send a game warden, a hunter or a veterinarian to the scene of the accident.
Slip hazard and braking distance
Due to the lower temperatures, the risk of skidding is greater in autumn, and the braking distance also becomes longer. This is due to wet and cold roads covered with leaves or dirt. Water puddles also increase the risk of aquaplaning. At low temperatures, ice can already be expected to form on bridges. Car drivers should therefore put on winter tires according to the O-rule - from October to Easter.
