As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, drivers in Ontario know that autumn brings unique challenges behind the wheel. Between early sunsets, patchy fog, wet leaves, and chilly mornings, visibility and traction can quickly change – sometimes within minutes.
Whether you’re commuting home from work, heading to a hockey game, or enjoying a scenic drive through the countryside, being prepared for night and fog driving is essential for keeping yourself and others safe on the road.
At Bender’s Auto Sales, we care about more than just helping you find your next vehicle. We want to help you drive it safely all year long. Here’s how to handle the challenges of autumn driving conditions with confidence.
1. Adjust to Earlier Darkness
By mid-autumn, the sun sets well before dinner time, and darkness becomes a part of your daily drive. Reduced light makes it harder to spot pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles, especially in rural areas.
Tips for night driving:
• Clean your headlights and windshield regularly. Dust, bugs, and film on glass surfaces scatter light and reduce visibility.
• Check your headlight alignment. Misaligned headlights can make it harder to see or may blind oncoming drivers.
• Dim your dashboard lights. Bright interior lighting can reduce your ability to see outside in the dark.
• Avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights. Focus on the right edge of your lane to stay oriented.
Upgrade tip:
If your vehicle still uses halogen bulbs, consider switching to LED headlights for better brightness and energy efficiency. At Bender’s Auto Sales, we can help you find vehicles with the latest lighting technology.
2. Driving Safely in Fog
Fog is one of the most challenging weather conditions to drive in, and during Ontario’s autumn months, it can appear suddenly and linger over low-lying areas, especially in the early morning or late evening.
Tips for driving in fog:
• Use low-beam headlights, not high beams. High beams reflect off fog droplets and create glare, making it harder to see.
• Turn on your fog lights if your vehicle has them. They help illuminate the road surface directly in front of you.
• Slow down and increase following distance. Fog distorts depth perception, so it’s easy to misjudge how close other vehicles are.
• Use your windshield wipers and defrosters to keep glass clear. Fog often comes with moisture buildup.
• If visibility becomes too poor, pull over safely, turn on your hazard lights, and wait until it clears.
3. Watch for Wet Leaves and Slippery Roads
Fallen leaves can be just as slippery as ice when they’re wet. Combined with cool temperatures and occasional morning frost, autumn roads demand extra caution.
Safety reminders:
• Reduce speed on leaf-covered roads.
• Avoid hard braking or sharp turns.
• Keep tires properly inflated and check tread depth regularly for maximum grip.
• Maintain safe distance from the vehicle ahead in case of sudden stops.
4. Keep Windows Clear and Vision Sharp
Autumn mornings often start with condensation or frost on your windows. A few extra minutes spent clearing your view can make a major difference in safety.
Before driving:
• Use a proper scraper for frost and let your car warm up enough for defrosting.
• Keep your washer fluid topped up and rated for cold weather.
• Replace worn wiper blades to ensure a streak-free view.
5. Prepare for Wildlife on the Move
Fall is a peak time for deer and other animals to be active, particularly around dawn and dusk. Rural drivers should stay especially alert.
Be aware of:
• Animal crossing signs and wooded areas.
• Pairs of glowing eyes along the roadside.
• The fact that deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, more are likely nearby.
If an animal appears in front of you, brake firmly and stay in your lane rather than swerving. Swerving could cause you to lose control or collide with another vehicle.
6. Regular Maintenance for Safer Driving
Seasonal maintenance is one of the best ways to prepare for changing road conditions. Simple steps can prevent costly repairs and reduce risks on the road.
Autumn vehicle checklist:
• Test headlights, brake lights, and turn signals.
• Check battery health and terminals for corrosion.
• Inspect brakes for wear and ensure they respond smoothly.
• Make sure your tires are in good condition and suited for colder weather.
At Bender’s Auto Sales, our vehicles are inspected and ready for the road, giving you peace of mind through every season.
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Drive
Autumn in Ontario is beautiful, but it also requires extra awareness and preparation on the road. Taking the time to adjust your driving habits for night and fog conditions helps protect everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a reliable commuter car, a family SUV, or a sturdy pickup for the farm, Bender’s Auto Sales is here to help you find the right vehicle for your lifestyle and budget.
Drive safe this fall, and enjoy the changing colours along the way.
📞 Contact us: 519-291-3390
📍 Location: 785 Main Street East, Listowel, Ontario