Mind the Dazzle

Autumn is here, and it’s time to prepare the car for the season ahead.

Shorter days bring low sun earlier in the day. According to the Department for Transport figures, dazzling sun was responsible for twenty-three crash fatalities in 2010. Before starting an afternoon journey, try to ensure you have a good pair of sunglasses with you.

If the sun makes it difficult to see, slow down. If the sun is behind you, then it’s in the eyes of oncoming drivers who may not be able to see you. Low sun can dazzle you through your mirrors so check over your shoulder for vehicles in your blind spot.

Make it easier for other drivers to see you by turning on your headlights before sunset and keeping them on for an hour after sunrise.

Leaves falling from trees can cause more hazardous driving conditions both on the road and to your vehicle.

Hard acceleration or braking can cause skidding while dips and potholes hiding under the leaves covering the road can cause other problems.

Always make sure your windscreen is cleaned inside and out as low sun will highlight grime and scratches and ensure your wiper blades are in good condition.

Also, clear out the tray-like area under the bonnet, below the windscreen. They can fill up with water when it gets blocked with leaves. The water then seeps into the car’s electrics, causing expensive and potentially dangerous damage.

The Good Garage Scheme would like to thank the IAM (Institute for Advanced Motoring) for their advice on driving in autumn.