Top Four Fall Driving Hazards and How to Handle Them

ERIE, Pa., Oct. 1, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The fall season brings many things: changing leaves, cooler temps and shorter days. But other signs of fall could pose a danger to motorists. Wet leaves, fog and frost are just a few of the driving hazards to watch out for.

Erie Insurance lists four of the top driving hazards and steps to make your commute safer.

    1. Rain and Wet Leaves Did you know wet leaves can be as slippery as ice? As
       the weather cools down, the rain picks up. Combine that with lower
       temperatures and you'll find your tires may have less grip than they did
       in the summer months. Drive cautiously in wet conditions - that includes
       driving slower than you would on a dry road. Check your tires to ensure
       they have enough tread. Insert a penny into your tread with Abraham
       Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you insert the penny all
       the way and all of Lincoln's head is still showing, that means your tread
       has worn down and it's time for new tires.


    2. Deer Collisions Deer are most active from October to January, especially
       during the dusk and dawn hours. A collision with a deer can do severe
       damage to your vehicle. Avoid deer on the roadways by slowing down during
       peak hours, paying attention to road signs and using your high beams to
       increase visibility when possible.


    3. Earlier Sunsets The days get shorter in the fall, so you'll find yourself
       driving in the dark more often. This is another peak time for accidents.
       Make sure you're staying alert during nighttime hours. Be on the lookout
       for pedestrians and turn your headlights on during dawn or dusk hours.
       Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and know when to swerve if
       there's an object in the road.

    4. School Children If you drive just before the school day starts or after
       it ends, you're in for lots of crosswalks and bus stops. Since more kids
       are walking and biking to school, you'll need to stay alert around
       schools and neighborhoods. Be aware of bus safety and school drop-off
       procedures as well. You can always consider finding a new route to avoid
       these high-traffic areas.

It's important to be prepared. But even the most cautious drivers can find themselves face-to-face with something unexpected. That's why it's important to have the right auto insurance. Contact a local ERIE agent for a personal and affordable insurance experience.

Erie Insurance Group
According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 9(th) largest homeowners insurer and 11(th )largest automobile insurer in the United States based on direct premiums written and the 16(th) largest property/casualty insurer in the United States based on total lines net premium written. The Group, rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company, has more than 5 million policies in force and operates in 12 states and the District of Columbia. Erie Insurance Group is a FORTUNE 500 company.

News releases and more information about Erie Insurance Group are available at www.erieinsurance.com.

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SOURCE Erie Insurance