Autumn in Michigan is breathtaking, with its vibrant colors, fresh cider, and crisp apples. Unfortunately, seasonal hazards can make leaf peeping in Michigan a dangerous time of year for drivers, motorcycles, and bicyclists.

If you were hurt in a Michigan car accident, the personal injury attorneys at Muth Law, P.C., can help. With over four decades of experience, Muth Law can evaluate your situation, provide advice and legal guidance, and help you recover the financial compensation you deserve.

Why Is Autumn a Dangerous Season for Michigan Drivers?

Leaf peepers and others traveling throughout Michigan in autumn face unique road hazards.

Falling Leaves

While leaf peepers come to Michigan for the breathtaking colors, falling leaves can pile up on roadways, obscure lane lines, and block drains, causing puddles and slick surfaces from rain accumulation.

Deer

Drivers are more likely to encounter deer in the fall, especially at dusk and dawn, as deer populations mate and habitat and food sources shift.

Rain

Autumn rains are common, causing puddles and slick roadways, as well as wet leaves that can make driving more dangerous.

High Winds

High winds can blow leaves off trees and cause branches to fall to the ground, creating road hazards for drivers, motorcycles, and bicyclists.

Fewer Daylight Hours

The sun setting earlier in the day means more hours of darkness, making it harder for drivers to see and avoid road hazards and other motorists.

Sun Glare

The sun is lower in the sky, and the reflected light can blind drivers.

Frost and Ice on Bridges and Roads

As nighttime temperatures drop near freezing, accumulated water freezes, causing hazardous road conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses.

Increased Traffic from Students and School Buses

With students returning to school, road traffic increases and driving patterns change as children are boarding and exiting buses or walking to and from school.

Low Tire Pressure

Cooler temperatures mean tires are more likely to lose pressure, which reduces maneuverability and makes the vehicle more difficult to handle.

Morning Fog

Cooler temperatures combined with increased moisture in the air create morning fog that can reduce visibility.

Safe Behaviors for Driving in Autumn

All drivers should take responsibility for staying safe on the road. Reduced visibility, changing weather conditions, and increased road activity are potential hazards we should all be aware of. To keep yourself and others safe:

1. Allow extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This additional space gives you more time to identify and respond to potential road hazards.
2. Be vigilant for additional road hazards. Scan the road, look to the sides, and check your mirrors, paying particular attention to any hidden dangers.
3. Familiarize yourself with changes to traffic patterns caused by students returning to school, and be particularly vigilant in residential neighborhoods, especially those near schools.

Injured in an Autumn Car Accident? Muth Law Can Help.

If you or someone you love was hurt in a Michigan car accident, Muth Law can help. Our skilled personal injury attorneys have decades of experience representing individuals who were hurt in Michigan car accidents.

Contact Muth Law Today

Muth Law is based in Ann Arbor and represents injured people in Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County and throughout Michigan. Please contact us to schedule a free, confidential appointment to discuss your truck accident injury matter. Call 734-481-8800 or contact us via e-mail. We look forward to serving your family.