End of Summer
We will revisit some safe driving tips for extreme heat as the heat rises despite the official end of summer today and the upcoming autumn season. The temperature inside cars can significantly exceed the outside heat. Meteorologists explain that shortwave solar radiation can easily heat your car’s black dashboard or seat to extremely high temperatures.
What are some of the best practices for handling heat while driving?
Ensure your car has enough coolant, and have your mechanic test the system for leaks or replace it if necessary. You should also ask them to inspect your belts and hoses, which may be damaged by the heat and the cabin air filter.
Since people will compete for shaded parking spots, consider getting a car cover and parking in a shaded area. Experts say this can help lower the temperature inside your car and protect the interior as well. Heat can cause the air inside your tires to expand, so double-check your tire pressure.
Extreme Heat in Closed Cars
Experts warn that leaving a window slightly open in parked cars is not enough because the temperature can rise within the first 10 minutes. Never leave children or pets inside a closed car. As the days grow longer and colder, you can expect changes on the road, too.
Our guide to safe autumn driving has plenty of tips to help you drive safely and enjoyably as the seasons change. If you’re concerned about driving in lower light conditions, consider taking short night drives to get used to it.
Using Lights While Driving
Legally, you must use your lights at night. How you use them is important, so here are some things to keep in mind:
- Use low-beam headlights at night in populated areas and during dark daytime weather to ensure you’re visible.
- Keep your low beams on when passing another vehicle, then switch to high beams if necessary.
- If you’re using high beams, make sure not to blind other drivers.
- If you’re learning to drive, most driving instructors offer lessons to boost students’ confidence in driving in the dark.
Driving in Fog
Wet weather and lower temperatures may lead to fog. Before entering the fog, check your mirrors, slow down, and use your headlights if visibility is poor. Once visibility improves, turn off the headlights. Fog is one of the most dangerous weather conditions. A single-car accident can involve others if everyone is driving too closely. Maintain a distance of at least three seconds from the vehicle in front of you. Stop in the correct position at intersections, try to listen for traffic, and only proceed when you’re sure it’s safe.
Once you decide to move, don’t hesitate, as you should minimize your time in the path of oncoming traffic. Finally, remember to turn off your fog lights once the fog clears. Leaving them on in clear conditions may confuse or annoy other drivers, and you could be fined.
Driving During a Storm
Storms can be unpredictable. Watch out for sudden winds on open roads and bridges as they can push your car. If possible, grip the steering wheel tightly and be ready to correct your course. Be extra cautious when overtaking large vehicles, as strong winds may destabilize them.
Also, beware of large puddles and standing water during heavy rain and floods, as they may be deeper than they appear. If you’re unsure, turn back. If your car stalls after driving through deep water, don’t try to restart it, as this could damage the engine. If a storm damages your car and leaves it stranded, turn on the hazard warning lights.
Dealing with Sun Glare
The low autumn sun can catch you off guard, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Be prepared by keeping sunglasses in your car and using the sun visor. Also, keeping your windshield clean inside and out will help you see better. If you’re driving into the sun, other road users may not see you, so stay alert and use your headlights when necessary.
Top Tips for Driving in Autumn
- Basic Car Maintenance Regularly check your car to ensure it’s in excellent condition and that all fluids (oil, antifreeze, coolant, windshield washer) are filled. Also, make sure your tires are in good condition and that your windshield wipers work properly.
- Mind Your Speed If you’re driving in bad weather, reducing your speed is crucial. Avoid sudden stops, as this may catch other drivers by surprise. Always stick to the speed limits, but if you need to drive slowly, do it gradually, allowing other drivers time to see and react to you.
- Remind Yourself How to Use Fog Lights You probably don’t use them often, so it’s good to familiarize yourself with the controls and the difference between settings. Know which lights are illuminated at the front and rear of your vehicle so you can confidently use them.
- Prepare for Rain and Frost Avoid driving with frost on your windshield and windows, as it will limit your visibility. Use your windshield wiper to remove the frost. Give yourself extra time on cold mornings to warm up the car and clear the windshield and windows. Use the defogger or air conditioner to remove condensation from windows before driving.
If you have an electric vehicle, you can precondition your car. Doing so while it’s charging at home speeds up the process. It heats the battery and increases your driving range.
Notably, keep your windshield and windows clean at all times. Dirt and smudges can cause them to fog up inside, leading to glare and making it harder to see.
- Check Your Vision Adapting to lower light as day turns into night can be challenging. You’re likely to notice vision problems during this time. You may struggle to see road signs clearly due to the glare from other vehicles and traffic lights. If you notice this, book an eye test. This way, you can ensure you’re wearing the correct glasses for night driving if needed.
- Keep Essentials in Your Car It’s helpful to feel prepared for any situation. Here are some small items you can keep in your car for peace of mind:
- A flashlight is handy if your car breaks down at night.
- A blanket or warm clothes so you can stay comfortable if your car breaks down and you need to wait for help in the cold.
- A phone charging cable is always useful, especially if you’re waiting for a call regarding a breakdown. If your car breaks down, find a safe, well-lit place to stop and leave your hazard warning lights on while waiting for assistance.
- Be Aware of Road Hazards When driving near trees, be mindful of leaves that may cover potholes or road markings. Drive carefully and keep a greater distance between your car and the one in front, as leaves can make the road slippery, especially when wet.
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