The shift from sunny, dry roads to soggy fall roads can catch even experienced drivers off guard.
With rain and cooler temperatures in the forecast, Road Safety at Work urges Island drivers to adjust their driving habits before slippery roads and poor visibility lead to crashes.
“Drivers get used to dry pavement and long daylight hours in the summer,” Trace Acres, program director for Road Safety at Work, said in a press release. “But fall brings a rapid change. Rain, glare, less daylight, and cooler temperatures can all affect how your vehicle handles and how quickly you can respond.”
Driving too fast for the conditions is a leading cause of crashes in the fall, especially when roads are wet or covered in leaves. “It’s a season of transition,” Acres says. “We need to transition our driving too. That means slowing down, leaving more space between vehicles, and stay focused on the road, especially in rainy and dark conditions.”
Light rain after a dry spell can lift oil from the road and reduce traction. A wet road increases braking distances. Heavy rain also makes it harder to steer, especially in high winds or when cornering.
If driving can’t be avoided, use DriveBC.ca to check current road and weather conditions before heading out. If you drive as part of your job, follow your organization’s winter driving policy and talk to your supervisor if you have any concerns about your safety on the road.
Most crashes are preventable. Road Safety at Work offers the following tips to help Island drivers keeps themselves, their passengers, and other road users safe:
- Use winter tires with the three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol. They provide better grip on wet roads and when temperatures drop below 7C. Winter tires are required on several Island highways as of Oct. 1. (See map at southcoastmap.pdf.)
- Reduce speed to below the posted limit. Posted limits are meant for ideal conditions, not for heavy rain.
- Increase following distance to at least four seconds. This gives you more time to stop or react to other drivers.
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Use headlights and tail lights to see and be seen.
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Check wiper blades and replace them if necessary. Winter wipers, designed to handle harsh weather, may offer better performance.
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Avoid cruise control. On wet roads, cruise control can cause your vehicle to accelerate if a tire loses traction.
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Be cautious when braking. Instead of slamming on the brakes, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down gradually when possible.
If you drive occasionally, part time or full time on the job, follow your organization’s winter driving policies. Your employer is responsible for your safety whenever you drive for work. Examples include picking up supplies, going to clients or between offices, or making deliveries.
