Pittsburgh, PA – As temperatures are forecasted to be close to freezing, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) reminds drivers of fall driving hazards and advises motorists to slow down and always pay attention when behind the wheel.

Wet leaves, fog, and frost are some of the driving hazards motorists may encounter this fall. Taking the proper steps can help make a driver’s commute safer.

As leaves begin to fall, wet leaves on the roadway can be as slippery as ice, especially in low temperatures. They also can obscure traffic lines and other pavement markings, making driving in unfamiliar areas particularly difficult. Drivers should slow down and use extra caution on leaf-covered roadways.

Another fall hazard for motorists can be fog. When driving in fog, motorists should use low beam headlights since the high beam setting creates glare and reduces visibility. Not only will headlights enhance visibility of your vehicle, but Pennsylvania law also requires headlights be on when wipers are in use.

Additionally, morning frost and icy spots on the road can also cause problems as overnight temperatures drop toward freezing. Motorists should pay particular attention to bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas on roadways where icy spots can form on the pavement. In addition to exercising caution while driving, motorists should clear their vehicle’s windows of frost before travel.

PennDOT offers the following fall driving tips:

• Increase your following distance in severe weather, at dusk and dawn, and when in an area with wet leaves. If you are being tailgated, let the other driver pass.
• Check your vehicle’s headlights, taillights, and turn signals to ensure they are working properly since darkness will be a part of many driver’s morning and/or evening commutes. Make sure you turn on your headlights as the sunlight fades.
• Have your vehicle’s heating and wiper systems checked to ensure they are working properly.
• Be sure you have tires with sufficient tread depth in case of an early season snow.

  PennDOT reminds motorists to stay aware of road and weather conditions. When driving during the fall season, extra caution should be used for the safety of everyone on the road.

For more information, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.