The transition from summer to fall may increase your risk of getting into an accident while traveling on a New York highway. This is because you’re more likely to encounter animals, slick roads and other hazards that aren’t usually present during the summer months. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to minimize your risk of being in a crash this fall.
Acclimate yourself to driving when it’s dark out
The days start to get significantly shorter during the months of September, October and November. When daylight saving time happens, the sun will start to set before 5 p.m. Therefore, you’ll likely be driving home in the dark even if you work a traditional day shift. Ideally, you will increase your following distance and reduce your speed when traveling at night in an effort to reduce your chances of being in a car accident.
Be on the lookout for children on their way to school
For most children in New York, the fall season means spending their days inside of a classroom. On most weekdays, you will be sharing the road with young people walking or riding their bikes to school. You may also have to contend with teenagers who drive themselves to school each day. It’s important to constantly scan the road for signs of pedestrian activity or signs that drivers may take action without warning.
If you are hurt in a motor vehicle crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages. You may be able to use a police report, witness statements or other evidence to show that a concussion or back injury was caused by the actions of a negligent driver.