Autumn Driving: Windshield Care and Safety amid Rain, Leaves, and Increased Deer Activity!

Fall Road Safety Tips and Why Deer are a Major Autumn Driving Hazard

With the arrival of the autumn season, driving conditions can become increasingly hazardous, with challenges such as rain, fallen leaves, and heightened wildlife movement. One of the most significant hazards during fall is the increased activity of deer. Did you know that the chances of hitting a deer with your vehicle are highest in October and November? November is the peak month for such incidents!  According to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife this is due to deer mating season, which leads to increased activity and movement across roads, particularly during dawn and dusk.

As the days get shorter and the sun sets earlier, visibility becomes a crucial factor for drivers. This is directly related to daylight savings time and in Massachusetts, the peak breeding period is between November 6 and November 20. With reduced daylight hours, ensuring that your windshield is in top condition becomes paramount for maintaining clear visibility on the road.

A clean, well-maintained windshield allows you to detect hazards earlier and react promptly, which is particularly important during the peak breeding season for deer. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, there are approximately 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions in the United States each year, resulting in over $1 billion in vehicle damage. The average claim of these deer-collisions is $3,995.

Enhance Your Safety and Protect your Windshield this Fall

Here’s how you can enhance your windshield care and safety practices in fall to better prepare for seasonal challenges and have a clear view:

1. Regular Cleaning

Keep your windshield clean both inside and out. Dirt, grime, and smudges can obscure your vision, especially during the low-light conditions of dawn and dusk. Using a quality glass cleaner to keep your windshield streak-free.

2. Check Windshield Wipers and Wiper Fluid

Wiper blades are your first line of defense against rain and falling leaves. In fall, precipitation can occur unexpectedly, and wet leaves can be a hazard. Check your wiper blades for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracking or stiffness. If they are not clearing water efficiently, consider replacing them. This simple step can dramatically improve visibility in adverse weather conditions

All-season windshield wipers are a wise investment for ensuring clear visibility through varying weather conditions. They are designed to handle all types of precipitation, from light drizzles to heavy rains, which are common in the fall. When selecting wiper blades, check for signs of wear like cracks, splits, or stiffness, which can reduce their effectiveness. This can lead to streaks and missed spots on the glass, further compounding vision problems during foggy or rainy conditions.

The effectiveness of your windshield wipers can dramatically impact your ability to see clearly. By committing to regular cleaning and maintenance, you're laying the groundwork for clear auto glass.

3. Remove Leaves and Debris

Fall can leave your car covered in leaves and other debris, which could accumulate around your windshield and under the wiper blades. As part of this routine maintenance, clean areas around the windshield like the cowl (the panel at the base of your vehicle’s windshield) as debris and fallen/ wet leaves can accumulate there, potentially clogging drains intended to channel rainwater away. This can lead to leaks inside your vehicle or decreased wiper performance.

4. Check Washer Fluid Levels

Maintaining your windshield washer fluid is crucial, especially with the potential for muddy splashes and clear but cold days where grime can kick up from the roads.

Ensure that your windshield washer fluid reservoir is full with a solution that can handle colder temperatures. These formulations often include anti-freeze properties that prevent the liquid from freezing on your windshield or within the system, thus maintaining clear, unobstructed views even in colder temperatures. Regularly check that your washer system is functioning properly by ensuring that the nozzles aren't blocked and that fluid delivery is strong and consistent.

Don't forget to regularly inspect the washer nozzles to make sure they are not clogged with dirt or debris. A quick test spray can confirm they are working effectively; if not, use a pin to gently clear any blockages. Keeping your washer system in top condition will guarantee clear visibility, enhancing your safety on the road.Additionally, it's a good idea to keep a spare bottle of washer fluid in your vehicle. This ensures you're never caught off guard by an empty reservoir, especially when you’re on a long drive or heading through areas with limited service stations. Consider marking a weekly reminder on your calendar to check and top up your washer fluid levels, so it becomes a habitual part of your vehicle maintenance routine.

Pay attention to the signs of low washer fluid, such as a streaky windshield or incomplete spray patterns. These indicators suggest it’s time to refill your washer fluid or examine your system for possible leaks. If you notice a puddle beneath your vehicle or a rapid decrease in fluid levels, inspect for leaks and get them repaired promptly to avoid any sudden loss of visibility while driving.

Moreover, when selecting washer fluid, opt for a brand that offers both cleaning efficiency and environmental safety. Some fluids include detergents that can break down grime and insect residues effectively while being gentle on surrounding ecosystems. By keeping your washer fluid levels properly maintained, you not only ensure a clean windshield but also enhance your overall driving safety throughout the fall season.

5. Address Chips and Cracks

Fall is a critical time to address any existing or cracks in your windshield. With fluctuating temperatures, small cracks can quickly worsen, compromising the structural integrity of the glass. As temperatures drop, especially in the evenings, any moisture that has settled in the cracks can freeze and expand, exacerbating the damage.

It's advisable to inspect your windshield regularly for any signs of damage. Even the smallest chip can become a major issue if not repaired promptly. Windshield repair kits are available for minor damage, allowing you to fix small chips before they spread. However, for larger cracks or more severe damage, professional repair or windshield replacement is recommended to ensure your windshield remains in optimum condition.

Additionally, untreated chips and cracks can also distort your view, leading to potential safety hazards. A clear, undamaged windshield is essential for maximum visibility and the effectiveness of your vehicle’s safety features, such as lane departure warnings or rain-sensing wipers.

6. Addressing Fog and Frost

As cooler temperatures roll in, the likelihood of waking up to a freshly frosted windshield or encountering foggy glass during your drive increases significantly. Both fog and frost can obstruct your view, posing serious safety concerns. Here are some tips to manage these common autumn issues effectively:

Use a Windshield Cover

Consider investing in a frost cover for your windshield. These protective covers are easy to apply and remove and can save you time in the morning by preventing frost from forming on your glass.

Use Plastic Ice Scrapers

Always use a plastic scraper, a rubber snow broom or a soft bristle brush to remove ice. Avoid using a metal scraper, which can scratch the glass and damage wiper blades.

De-icer Solutions

Keep a bottle of windshield de-icer handy. Popular mechanics say deicing solutions such as Prestone Windshield Deicer is a great option. Unlike many sprays’s packaging, this bottle has a built-in scraper for thicker bits of ice that need to be coaxed off the glass. Prestone says to pre-break tougher bits of ice before spraying the solution on your windshield, let it sit, and then clear the remaining detritus with your wiper blades. With this spray’s active ingredients like methyl alcohol and ethylene glycol, it’s imperative to avoid contact with skin and breathing in the fumes.

Start Your Car Early

To combat chilly mornings, start your vehicle 10-15 minutes in advance and activate the defrost. Many modern cars offer remote starters, allowing you to pre-set the defrost function and vents to full blast the previous night. This way, you can warm up your car from the comfort of your home. Gradually increasing the temperature not only warms the car but also clears interior fog. Additionally, some cars are equipped with rear window defrosters, which can be activated at the push of a button to swiftly remove any frost or fog.

Keep Your Car Dry

Moisture is the primary culprit behind fogged-up glass. Remove any damp clothing, umbrellas, or other items that can increase humidity inside your vehicle. Consider using desiccants like silica gel packs inside the car, which can absorb excess moisture and prevent fogging.

Crack a Window

If your car's interior starts to fog up while driving, slightly cracking open a window may help balance the airflow, allowing moisture to escape and preventing further fog accumulation.

In conclusion, the autumn season presents unique challenges for maintaining windshield clarity and safety.

Mindful Fall Car Maintenance

In conclusion, the autumn season presents unique challenges for maintaining windshield clarity and safety. The combination of falling leaves, increased precipitation, wildlife and early frosts can make driving more hazardous. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning your windshield using the right tools and products, checking wiper blades, and applying a water-repellent treatment, can significantly enhance visibility. Additionally, being mindful of other safety practices, such as starting your car early to defrost the windows and removing any moisture-causing items from the interior, can further ensure a clear view.

Neglecting these simple steps can lead to impaired vision, increasing the likelihood of accidents, particularly with the increased risk of deer activity during fall. By taking these precautions, you can drive more confidently through the season, enjoying the vibrant fall scenery while ensuring the safety of yourself and others on the road. Remember, clear visibility is the first step to safe driving, making windshield care crucial as the leaves change and the temperatures drop.