Last weekend marked the unofficial end of summer. The days are getting shorter, the nights are getting colder and the leaves are beginning to fall. There are a number of factors, during this time of the year, that can contribute to an increase in accidents which would include the weather and increased back-to-school traffic.

These situations can be especially dangerous with teen drivers, elderly drivers, and people who engage in distracted driving. There are more students out at bus stops, crossing busy intersections, riding bicycles to school, and many of which are out when the lighting conditions are less than ideal. These situations can be made even more dangerous with leaves falling on the ground, which sometimes become wet from the rain, or are covered with frost.

The Federal Highway Safety Administration estimates that more than 1.3 million motor vehicle accidents occur every year due to adverse weather conditions. This makes up just less than 25% of all motor vehicle crashes. Almost half a million people each year are injured and more than 6,000 people are killed in accidents that result from bad weather conditions.

As summer turns into fall it is important to keep in mind a number of hazards that are present during this changeover in seasons which include but are not limited to the following:

• Fallen leaves that are wet or are covered in frost.
• Reduced visibility due to fog.
• Heavy traffic in the early morning and afternoon hours when children are traveling to and from school.
• Increased pedestrian and bicycle traffic resulting from children attending school.
• Sun glare, which is especially prevalent in the early morning hours.
• An increase in animals unexpectedly appearing and running across the street.
• Many people, while driving, will admire the autumn foliage and this distraction may cause an accident.

There are many things that drivers can do to greatly reduce their chances of getting involved in a weather-related accident. In adverse weather conditions such as rain or frost, drivers should slow down and allow more space between vehicles should it be necessary to stop suddenly. You should drive defensively and be on the lookout for school children, pedestrians, people on bicycles, and animals running onto the roadway.

If you or someone you know has been injured through the carelessness of another that is important that you contact an experienced Connecticut personal injury lawyer at the earliest possible moment so that your case can be investigated and evidence can be preserved. Our Connecticut accident attorneys provide free books and free consultations so you can make an informed decision as to how you would like to proceed.

Enjoy the upcoming autumn season and above all be careful!