Fall brings on many changes including increased variability in weather throughout the day and decreasing sunlight during common commute times. Wildlife tends to be more active during sunrise and sunset and thus we see an increase in road crossings during normal driving times. It also means that roadways are extra busy with fall harvest and transportation of crops and moving livestock to fall pastures or markets.
As we drive along rural roads (pavement or dirt) there are many safety considerations for all drivers to be reminded of as we head into fall. This includes whether we are out on our daily commute or out for a leisurely drive.
Driver Pretrip Check
- Ensure your vehicle has working lights including emergency flashers
- Make sure that you have plenty of fuel
- Check tires for proper inflation and walk around the vehicle to inspect for excess mud or broken or hanging pieces
- Be prepared while out driving on rural roads with an emergency kit, appropriate clothing, snacks, and water
- Make sure that you have knowledge and equipment to change a spare tire and jump start your vehicle as you may not be able to call for roadside assistance due to poor cellular service
- Ensure that you are aware of weather and road conditions before starting out
Driver Safety for All
- Turn on your headlights so that others can visibly see you especially close to sunrise, sunset, and/or if there is cloudy or foggy weather.
- Be prepared for changing road conditions including ice, morning dew, potholes in the pavement, and/or washboards on dirt roads.
- Watch for increased wildlife crossings due to migration, fall hunting activity, and change in habitat or cover due to harvested fields.
- Keep a minimum of 3 vehicle lengths between you and the next vehicle or piece of equipment. It only takes 5 seconds (length of a football field) to reach a piece of equipment moving 15mph if you are traveling 55mph.
- Equipment cannot stop on a dime. It takes a loaded semi and trailer and average of 196ft to stop when traveling at 55mph.
- Be patient when passing; wait for agricultural equipment operators to waive you around or pull over as you may not be able to safely see oncoming traffic.
- Take care and give plenty of room when passing equipment that has broken down on the side of the road.
- Watch for turning farm or ranch equipment as they need extra space to safely navigate corners. They may also be turning into fields or hidden driveways that may not be easily seen by those following them.
- If following producers trailing livestock; follow slowly, do not attempt to pass unless they waive you through, and avoid flashing lights and honking the horn so as not to spook the livestock or cause injury.
Save Lives -> Look 2x and Slow Down this fall season to help keep you and others safe!
Live Smart Colorado feature articles, developed by Colorado State University Extension specialists, provide research-based, practical information to support lifelong nutrition, physical, financial, and emotional health and well-being for Coloradans.