Who doesn’t love when the leaves change color? I love seeing our beautiful green state go to shades of yellow and reds. But with Autumn comes more danger for motorcyclists.

As your local personal injury firm, who would we be if we didn’t send out a few things to look out for and keep you safe? With that in mind, here are a few things we have seen cause trouble with our clients:

1. Wet leaves on pavement

Wet leaves on pavement can be as slippery as ice, especially on curves or intersections. Be mindful of this on busy or fast roads.

2. Shorter days

Because of daylight savings, more people are commuting home in the dark or low light. They are driving fast, are tired from the early nightfall, and they are not looking for you.

3. Sun glare at dawn/dusk during fall driving hours

Speaking of drivers not looking for riders, they also might have difficulty seeing you, even if they are looking. With wet roads and glares and early dusk hours, blind spots may increase.

4. Temperature swings affecting tire grip through the day

Alabama is one of those beloved states where it’s cold in the morning and blistering through the day. But did you know those swings can affect tire grip? Keep that in mind as you’re heading home at the end of the day.

5. Deer season

Being mindful of deer is necessary for all drivers, but there are statistically worse outcomes for cyclists than car-deer collisions. If you want to go hunting, stick to the deer stand.

What We Suggest

During fall, we recommend riders increase following distance by at least a few feet, wear more visibility gear, and proceed with extreme caution on those leaf-covered roads.

We want you to stay safe, but if you’re ever in a crash and need legal representation, you don’t need to fight this alone. Even when practicing every precaution, a rider is often unfairly blamed after a crash. Insurance companies hold a bias against motorcyclists in fault determinations.

Luckily for you, Alabama Personal injury Lawyers, LLC does not. We’re here for you every step of the way, and there’s no fee unless we win. Call 205-INJURED for a free consultation.