Translate
The long, lazy days of summer are officially behind us. The air is getting crisper, the leaves are turning golden, and for transport managers across the country, a new set of challenges is on the horizon. Autumn, with its misty mornings, low sun, and unpredictable weather, is a beautiful but tricky season for anyone on the road.
As a transport manager, your priority is keeping your fleet moving, but your most important asset is your drivers. Their safety is paramount, and a little preparation now can prevent big problems later. So, put down the pumpkin spice latte for a moment and let’s get down to some essential autumn safety tips.
1. The Low Sun: Your Morning and Afternoon Nemesis
That beautiful autumnal sunrise? It’s also a blinding hazard. The low sun is a major cause of glare, especially in the mornings and late afternoons.
- The Fix: Remind your drivers to keep their windscreens scrupulously clean, both inside and out. A smeary windscreen amplifies glare. Advise them to always have a pair of sunglasses handy—even on cloudy days, the sun can suddenly break through. And most importantly, teach them to slow down and create extra space when visibility is poor.
2. The Great Leaf Conspiracy
Autumn leaves are lovely on the trees, but deadly on the road. Wet leaves create a slippery, greasy surface that is just as dangerous as black ice.
- The Fix: This is a classic case of prevention being better than cure. Remind your drivers to reduce speed, especially on rural roads or in areas with heavy tree cover. Braking distances increase dramatically on a carpet of leaves. The mantra should be: “See leaves, think slow.”
3. Fog and Mist: When the World Disappears
Misty mornings are a quintessential part of autumn, but they drastically reduce visibility.
- The Fix: This is where clear communication and proper vehicle checks come in. Remind your drivers to use their fog lights when visibility is poor, but to switch them off as soon as conditions improve to avoid dazzling other drivers. Ensure all vehicles have fully functioning lights, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators. A quick, regular check of all bulbs should be part of the daily routine.
4. The Tyre Check: Your Best Friend in Slippery Conditions
Your drivers’ tyres are their only contact with the road. With wet and greasy surfaces becoming the norm, their condition is more critical than ever.
- The Fix: Implement a stricter-than-ever tyre pressure and tread depth check. The legal minimum tread is 1.6mm, but for autumn and winter driving, we recommend a minimum of 3mm. Encourage your drivers to report any signs of uneven wear immediately.
5. Black Ice: The Silent Threat
As temperatures start to drop towards zero overnight, the risk of black ice increases, particularly on bridges and in sheltered areas.
- The Fix: This is all about awareness. Encourage your drivers to be extra vigilant, especially during early morning shifts. Black ice is nearly impossible to see, so the best strategy is caution. Tell them to lift off the accelerator, keep steering inputs smooth and gentle, and avoid sudden braking.
Don’t Forget the Vehicle Itself
Beyond the daily checks, now is the time to prepare your entire fleet for the changing seasons. Ensure all vehicles are topped up with screenwash, which should be anti-freeze resistant. Check that wipers are in good working order and not smearing the screen. And for longer journeys, a winter safety kit in the cab—including a high-vis jacket, a torch, and a charged phone—is always a smart idea.
At Trucksmith, we know that a safe fleet is a productive fleet. By taking a proactive approach to autumn safety, you’re not just protecting your drivers; you’re safeguarding your business.
