Protecting Your Car from Autumn Driving Risks

Now that we are approaching the start of autumn, you can expect to encounter a lot of seasonal changes. With those changes might come hazardous driving conditions. If you don’t drive with care and have a well-functioning car, then you might face higher accident risks. If the worst does happen, then you might also find yourself facing a costly car insurance claim. a car driving down a street next to a tree

a car driving down a street next to a tree

However, you can take a lot of steps to prevent autumn car accidents just by paying attention to your car. The better your car functions, the better you’ll be able to handle the vehicle and avoid hazards. So, while we still have fair summer weather in place, take time to check out a few of your essential vehicle systems.

Test Your Headlights

A car’s headlights will aid in navigation during both nighttime driving and bad weather. Given that autumn means shorter days, you have a bigger need to use your lights this time of year. Plus, during seasonal storms, you might need to use your lights during the daytime, too. They can help you spot and avoid hazards.

Over time, your headlights might begin to fail or the lenses might become clouded. If your lights cannot provide the right illumination, then your visibility will drop. Therefore, your accident risks might increase. Many service providers can replace damaged headlights or restore lenses at affordable costs.

Replace your Wipers

As the weather cools, cold fronts could bring rain, wind and thunderstorms to our area. Drivers caught on the road will need to make full use of their windshield wipers.

If you have not replaced your wipers in the past six months to a year, then it might be time to get a new set. As wipers age, they tend to corrode. Old wipers might no longer adequately clear your windshield and limit your visibility. Plus, damaged wipers might begin to scratch the glass, which could equal a high repair bill in the future. You need to be able to see through your windshield at all times, and functioning wipers are a key to that.

Check Your Tires

Every set of tires will begin to wear out over time. As they do, they will give you less control over your vehicle and increase your accident risks.

Your tire’s tread can wear off to the point that your car can no longer accelerate, stop and swerve accurately. Therefore, you’ll have less reaction time and more risk of a collision. This is particularly true when you begin to encounter wet roads or roads covered with fallen leaves. The lack of traction could make it very easy for an accident to occur. Have your tires rotated or replaced at intervals to make sure they perform optimally.

Protecting Your Car from Autumn Driving Risks

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