With autumn, the risk of dangerous traffic situations increases on Austria’s roads. Wet leaves, fog, early frost patches, and strong gusts of wind can change driving conditions in a short time. Therefore, the ÖAMTC driving technique appeals to drivers to adjust their speed in time and to drive with particular foresight.

„Many dangers typical for autumn are underestimated,“ explains Roland Frisch, chief car instructor of the ÖAMTC driving technique. Especially the sudden change between dry and slippery roads as well as limited visibility could surprise drivers.

One of the biggest dangers in autumn lies directly on the road: wet leaves. Combined with moisture, it can significantly reduce tire grip. Particularly critical are shady road sections and forest areas, where early frost patches can form after cold nights.

Therefore, the ÖAMTC recommends driving slower, increasing the safety distance, and avoiding abrupt steering or braking maneuvers.

Even modern safety systems like ABS or ESP cannot fully compensate for the loss of tire grip.

Thick fog occurs particularly frequently in the morning and evening hours in autumn. It is crucial to adjust the speed to the actual visibility range.

Drivers should only drive as fast as they can safely stop within the visible distance.

In fog, the ÖAMTC recommends turning on the dipped headlights and, if necessary, the fog lights. High beams are unsuitable as the light is reflected by the fog droplets and can further impair visibility.

Additionally, drivers should refrain from overtaking maneuvers and pay special attention to road markings.

Not only fog can suddenly restrict visibility. The low autumn sun is also often underestimated.

Anyone blinded by the sun for one second at a speed of 100 km/h travels almost 28 meters further.

Particularly problematic: sunrise and sunset often coincide with peak traffic times in autumn.

Clean windshields can reduce disturbing reflections. Additionally, the ÖAMTC recommends keeping sunglasses handy and using the sun visor.

Strong winds also pose dangers. Gusts of wind can shift vehicles sideways. Additionally, branches, roof tiles, or other objects can suddenly be on the road.

If an emergency braking is required, ÖAMTC expert Frisch recommends keeping the steering wheel stable, looking in the direction of travel, and braking firmly and continuously in a vehicle with ABS.

An evasive maneuver should only be performed if there is enough space and no one is endangered by it.

If a vehicle starts to skid on wet or slippery roads, reacting correctly is crucial. Those who have never experienced such a situation can be easily caught off guard.

Therefore, the ÖAMTC points to driving technique training, where emergency braking, evasive maneuvers, aquaplaning, and behavior on slippery surfaces can be practiced under controlled conditions.

In everyday life, however, the most important recommendation remains simple: adjust speed and distance early, drive attentively, and avoid abrupt maneuvers as much as possible.

(Ed.)

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