As the heat of the Mississippi summer gives way to crisp autumn air, our beautiful state transforms. The leaves begin to turn, the Friday night lights shine bright, and the rhythm of life slows just enough to enjoy the change. But with this shift in seasons comes a new set of dangers on our roads—dangers that demand your full attention and a proactive approach to safety.
Don't be lulled into a false sense of security. The very things that make fall so lovely can also make driving hazardous. Reduced daylight, increased wildlife activity, and changing road conditions are all factors you must consider every time you get behind the wheel.
The Impact of Reduced Daylight
Daylight Saving Time ends in November, but the shorter days begin long before the clocks change. Your morning and evening commutes will increasingly take place in darkness or at dawn and dusk—the times when visibility is at its worst.
Headlights On, Every Time: Make it a habit to use your headlights not just at night, but also during twilight hours and on overcast days. A clean windshield and properly aligned headlights are crucial for seeing what's ahead and ensuring you are seen by other drivers.
Beware the Glare: As the sun hangs lower in the sky, it can create a blinding glare at sunrise and sunset. Keep a pair of sunglasses in your car and use your sun visor. If the glare is too intense, slow down or, if necessary, pull over safely until you can see clearly.
Look for Vulnerable Road Users: The darker hours make it harder to spot pedestrians, cyclists, and children waiting for the school bus. Be especially vigilant in residential areas and around schools.
The Deer Season Danger Zone
For Mississippi drivers, fall is synonymous with one of the greatest threats on the road: deer. As hunting season begins and the deer rut (mating season) gets underway, these animals become more mobile and unpredictable. A collision with a deer can cause catastrophic damage to your vehicle and result in serious injury. According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), there were 3,979 reported deer-related vehicle collisions in Mississippi in 2022, a steady rise every year.
The risk is highest at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. They often travel in groups, so if you see one deer, be prepared for more to follow.
Stay Alert: Drive with extreme caution on roads bordered by fields or forests. Watch for deer crossing signs and be ready to brake.
Don't Swerve: If a deer suddenly appears in your path, do not swerve. Swerving can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and lead to a more dangerous head-on collision with oncoming traffic or a fixed object like a tree. Instead, apply the brakes firmly and stay in your lane. It is safer to hit the deer than to veer off the road.
Use High Beams Safely: On unlit rural roads, use your high beams to increase visibility. However, be courteous and dim them immediately when you see an oncoming car.
Other Fall Hazards
Beyond the big two, other fall dangers require your attention:
Wet Leaves: A beautiful carpet of autumn leaves can be as slick as ice when wet. They can also hide potholes and other road hazards. Slow down and increase your following distance, especially after a rainstorm.
Morning Frost and Fog: As temperatures drop, be mindful of frost on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than the rest of the road. Early morning fog can reduce visibility to mere feet—if it gets too thick, find a safe place to pull over and wait for it to lift.
Driving in the fall requires a renewed sense of vigilance and responsibility. Be a defensive driver. Give yourself extra time for your commute and eliminate distractions. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, depends on it.
Gulfport Car Accident Attorney Ready to Help
If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being injured in a car accident this fall—whether from a collision with an animal or another driver's negligence—it's imperative to know your rights and get legal representation by your side.
Gulf South Law Firm is committed to providing compassionate yet aggressive advocacy for injured Mississippi residents. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, we’ll help you understand your options and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (228) 231-3989 and get a free consultation.