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.
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