After the triple-digit temperatures of summer, autumn has arrived in Arizona, much to the delight of residents. The season brings cooler temperatures, or if you live in the state’s higher elevations, the first snowfall. The return of fall means that the leaves will begin to turn glorious shades of gold, red, and yellow. In addition, it is time to enjoy pumpkin spice, wearing cozy sweaters, and decorating for Halloween.
The season between summer and winter, autumn also presents new challenges for motorists, as the dark comes soon and more Arizonans hit the road. Then, there is Halloween, when all the superheroes and villains come out for one night to trick-or-treat. These events highlight the importance of staying alert and driving safely while enjoying your favorite seasonal activities like attending the State Fair.
You should also ensure that you are adequately protected by discussing your auto insurance policy with Hegarty-Haynes Insurance’s independent insurance agents. Here are two common fall challenges and some tips to avoid them. These safety tips will help keep you and others, whether motorists or pedestrians, safe during your autumn adventures.
Darkness
After the Autumnal Equinox, which occurs annually in the Northern Hemisphere on September 22, night comes earlier. The National Safety Council says that “depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision can be compromised in the dark, and the glare of headlights from an oncoming vehicle can temporarily blind a driver.” The NSC adds reduced visibility when driving at night, even when using your high beams, highlighting the importance of slowing down. Their recommendations include:
- Adjusting your headlights
- Making sure your headlight units are clean
- Dimming the dashboard and rear-view mirror
- Wearing anti-reflective prescription glasses, if applicable
- Driving at a reduced speed to compensate for the diminished visibility
Halloween
Valley communities come alive on October 31, as kids dressed in of-the-moment costumes go from door to door, trick-or-treating. Unfortunately, accidents can occur on Halloween, mainly since visibility is often limited due to trick-or-treaters wearing dark clothing after the sun has set for the night. Whether you are a motorist or parent, there are specific things you can do to ensure the safety of children and teens not only on Halloween but the days leading up to it, including:
- Having trick-or-treaters carry glow sticks or flashlights
- Applying reflective tape to their costumes
- Carefully entering/exiting driveways and alleys
- Always being alert for pedestrians
- Slowing down on Halloween night
Contact Independent Insurance Agents in Tempe
Hegarty-Haynes Insurance understands the importance of providing superior quality insurance solutions and has dedicated our resources to helping Arizonans find excellent insurance coverage at affordable prices. Our commitment to ongoing support and responsiveness backed by years of experience sets our independent insurance agents apart from the competition.
Contact Hegarty-Haynes Insurance to discuss receiving a complimentary insurance quote with one of our independent insurance agents today at (480) 820-2297. We look forward to helping you find the best auto, business, home, or life insurance policy for your specific needs. Our conveniently located independent insurance agency in Tempe is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Resources:
“Autumnal Equinox 2021: The First Day of Fall.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
“Simple Steps for an Extra Safe Halloween.” The National Safety Council (NSC).
“The Most Dangerous Time to Drive.” The National Safety Council (NSC).
