When fog creeps over the roads, temperatures drop, and it gets dark earlier, exceptional attention is required in traffic. Road users must adjust to changing conditions. Due to wetness or leaves on the road, the risk of skidding increases, and the braking distance is extended. Puddles and water channels can lead to aquaplaning, and falling temperatures can cause ice formation on bridges.
To ensure drivers get safely through autumn and winter, it is advisable to fit winter tires in October. The winter tires should have at least 4mm of tread remaining and should not be more than ten years old. Vehicle equipment must also adapt to the season. Snow chains, ice scrapers, snow brooms, wool blankets, and de-icing spray will now be particularly useful. Furthermore, it is recommended to check all important functions of the car, since the vehicle is under more strain in the cold season. If desired, TCS also offers a detailed winter test.
Visibility on the bike and on foot
Anyone cycling in autumn should wear bright clothing, preferably with reflective elements. The lighting (white at the front, red at the back) must work perfectly. Reflectors at the front, back, and on the pedals provide additional visibility. Tires with tread and enough air ensure grip on slippery roads and can prevent falls.
Pedestrians are also advised to take certain precautions in autumn. Good footwear provides grip, and clothes with reflective elements increase safety. Wearing reflective materials, if possible on multiple parts of the body, ensures that one is spotted in time, giving drivers time to react. Every second accident could be avoided with an additional second of reaction time. On the madevisible.swiss website, the site of the campaign renewed annually by TCS, numerous suggestions for clothing and accessories that increase visibility at night are available.
Beware of wildlife
In autumn, the risk of unexpectedly encountering wildlife increases. To prevent collisions, it is important to adjust speed and to be ready to brake, especially at dusk. If an animal is on the road or nearby, switch to low beam and honk to scare the animal away. Avoid dangerous evasive maneuvers. If a collision occurs despite these precautions, report the accident to the police immediately. They will send a wildlife ranger, a hunter, or a veterinarian to the accident site. Do not approach an injured animal; instead, wait at a safe distance for the professionals to arrive.
Media contact:
Marco Wölfli
porte-parole médias TCS
Tél. 058 827 34 03
marco.woelfli@tcs.ch