Driving through autumn in Kent doesn’t sound as harsh as driving in winter. However staying safe on wet, leafy roads is something we don’t really think about once October hits. The evenings draw in , the rain starts falling harder, and the roads never seem quite as grippy as they do during the summer. throw in a layer of soggy leaves across country lanes and side streets , and suddenly even a short trip can feel a bit more unpredictable.
Why Autumn Feels Different
Kent is full of winding back roads, busy A-roads such as the A2, and stretches of motorway that see plenty of traffic especially in the morning and evening when the dark is creeping in earlier than usual. Autumn adds a few hazards into the mix that can catch drivers off guard every year:
- Wet leaves – They may look harmless, but drive over a patch and you’ll soon notice how much grip you lose.
- Rain – Sudden showers create surface water, especially near drains or dips in the road.
- Darkness – With the clocks changing soon, many commutes end in near darkness.
Give your car a quick once-over
A lot of accidents in autumn could be avoided if cars were better prepared. It doesn’t take long to do a few checks, and they really do make a difference:
- Tyres – tread and pressure matter more in the wet. Thin tread = less grip.
- Brakes – if they feel spongy or noisy, don’t ignore it.
- Lights – you’ll be using them earlier in the day, so make sure none are out.
- Wipers – streaky windscreens in heavy rain aren’t just annoying, they’re dangerous.
If you’re unsure, book a quick inspection. A half-hour check beats waiting at the side of the road with hazards flashing.
Smarter driving in autumn
Even with a well-looked-after car, how you drive makes the biggest difference. A few tweaks to your normal habits go a long way:
- Ease off the accelerator if the road is covered in leaves.
- Leave more space between you and the car in front — stopping distances can double.
- Keep your dipped beams on when it’s raining or gloomy, even if it’s daytime.
- Be smooth with steering and braking. Sharp movements on slippery roads cause skids.
These are small changes, but they’re the kind of things that keep you safe when conditions turn against you.
When things don’t go to plan
Sometimes it doesn’t matter how careful you are — cars break down, and accidents happen. That’s where we come in. At Medway Vehicle Services, we help local drivers across Kent with everything from new tyres and brake checks to bodywork repairs after a bump. We’re not a chain, just a local garage that knows how much hassle being off the road can be, especially this time of year.
It’s Important to stay safe, but Reds Recovery is always here for the worst case.
Driving through autumn in Kent: staying safe on wet, leafy roads isn’t complicated, but it does mean paying a bit more attention than you might in July. Look after your car, keep your driving steady, and don’t take unnecessary risks. And if you do find yourself needing repairs or checks, Medway Vehicle Services is here to help keep you safe and moving.