Leaves are falling. What tips do you have for driving safely in the fall?

Gary Jaffarian shares to important tips to avoid a common fall driving hazard — hydroplaning on wet leaves.

Fall is officially here and while the temperatures have not felt like it, we are starting to see the leaves fall. Leaves can be a driving hazard. Even dry leaves can present a challenge because they can hide potholes, curbs and street markings and even present a fire hazard should leaves gather inside a hot muffler or tailpipe.

With Fall here, be sure your vehicle’s brakes and tires are in good condition. This time of year the roads can be slick from a combination of rain and leaves. Hydroplaning is a real risk this time of year. Hydroplaning is a build-up of water between your tires and the road resulting in a loss of traction, steering and brake control. Even a single layer of wet leaves can make braking, steering and stopping difficult. This is particularly dangerous at intersections and even worse at downhill stop signs. Be especially careful when driving on a leaf-strewn highway ramp, on back roads or other areas where you may be traveling north to view the foliage.

Gary Jaffarian’s 10 tips to avoid hydroplaning:
1. Slow down on slick roads. Roads that are covered in leaves may also be slick.
2. Avoid driving through standing water.
3. Keep your tires properly inflated.
4. Rotate and replace tires when necessary.
5. Avoid driving in outer lanes where water tends to accumulate. Middle lanes may be safer.
6. Try to drive in the tire tracks left by the cars in front of you, like you would during a snow storm.
7. Turn off cruise control.
8. Drive in a lower gear. Many of the new vehicles we sell have automatic traction control. Be sure it is turned on.
9. Avoid hard braking.
10. Try not to make sharp or quick turns.

When was the last time you had your tires and brakes checked? At Jaffarian Volvo Toyota, we will routinely check them and provide you a report on these and other diagnostics for your peace of mind. Check out our online specials to protect your wallet and bring in your vehicle to be checked by our certified mechanics at Jaffarian Volvo Toyota Service Departments. We do your homework for you so check out our “Dare to Compare” online and in our Jaffarian Toyota Service Department. We are committed to saving you time and money while sharing tips to keep you safe. Have a question for me, please submit it!

Happy Autumn! Drive Safely.

 

 

 

 

Gary Jaffarian