Fall Is the Most Dangerous Driving Season. Here’s What You Need To Know

California, Texas, New York, Illinois, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Missouri, and Wisconsin are among the states with the highest crash counts during fall, according to the analysis. Many drivers may assume winter poses the most risk, but experts point to diminished daylight, slick leaf-covered roads, and increased deer activity as key hazards in autumn.

“Seasonal shifts can bring new risks on the road, making this a good time to slow down, stay alert, and check for maintenance or open recalls to ensure the safety of the vehicle and everyone on the road,” said Faisal Hasan, vice president of data acquisition at CARFAX.

The National Safety Council reports that drivers are twice as likely to be involved in an accident at night as during the day. Wet leaves can double braking distances, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Fall coincides with the deer mating and migration season, which increases the likelihood of animal collisions, according to data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

How To Reduce Accident Risks During the Fall

Safety experts say prevention starts before repairs are ever needed. Drivers can lower their risk of a crash this fall by taking a few extra precautions.

• Slow down: Speed remains one of the leading contributors to crashes nationwide.
• Stay alert after dark: With daylight hours shrinking, drivers should recognize that the risk of accidents doubles in darkness, according to the National Safety Council.
• Watch for slick surfaces: Wet leaves can double braking distances, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Extra space between vehicles is critical.
• Be prepared for wildlife: Deer activity peaks in the fall, raising the likelihood of collisions, particularly at dawn and dusk.
• Check maintenance: Tire pressure, wiper blades, batteries, and fluid levels all take on added importance as temperatures drop.

Experts say that combining cautious driving with proactive maintenance is the most effective way to stay safe on the road as the seasons change.

After a Crash: What To Inspect

For those who do end up in an accident, safety experts say it’s crucial to scrutinize the vehicle once repairs are complete.

• Fit and finish: Panels should align evenly, doors and trunks should close smoothly, and paint should match the factory finish.
• Safety systems: The airbag warning light should turn off normally, seatbelts should retract and lock, and cameras or sensors should operate as designed.
• Mechanical performance: A repaired car should drive straight, brake evenly, and show no leaks underneath. Any steering vibration or off-center wheel may point to unresolved damage.
• Interior and electronics: Warning lights should be clear, windows and locks should function, and trim should be securely reinstalled.

Adas Calibration

One of the most overlooked steps is recalibrating advanced driver assistance systems, or ADAS, which control lane-keeping, emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

“All OEMs require ADAS calibrations. Every manufacturer has different procedures. Most domestic vehicles have dynamic calibrations, while many foreign models require static calibration. Static requires the ‘white room,’ as we call it. Ensuring we are following the OEM procedures will determine whether that radar or module is reading zero degrees or not — which is the difference between proper function and failure in operation,” said John Voulgarakis, chief executive officer of Lightning Auto Service.

Drivers should confirm with their repair shop that ADAS calibration was performed and documented. Without it, critical safety systems may not respond correctly.

Paperwork and Warranty

Repair invoices should list all parts replaced, and consumers may want to ask whether original equipment or aftermarket components were used. Most shops provide warranties for paint and bodywork.

Staying Ahead of Seasonal Risks

CARFAX recommends drivers also keep up with preventive maintenance, especially in the fall. This includes checking tire pressure as temperatures drop, monitoring batteries and wiper blades, and preparing an emergency kit with essential items such as food, water, blankets, and chargers.

“CARFAX has the most accident, damage, and service information that no one else has, offering these insights to keep drivers informed and one step ahead,” Hasan said.

With more crashes occurring in the fall than in any other season, experts say vigilance behind the wheel and attention to safety after repairs can make the difference between a safe drive and another trip to the body shop.