10/2/2012

PRESS RELEASE: Streets Department's Fall Weather Advisory

PHILADELPHIA – With the arrival of fall, Streets Commissioner Clarena Tolson reminds motorists to use extra caution while driving in the rain and be mindful of wet leaves which can create slippery conditions on wet road surfaces. When leaves accumulate on the roadway and become wet, they can become extremely slippery, making driving conditions hazardous. In addition to creating slippery conditions, wet leaves can often cover traffic lines and other markings and reduce the car's traction, cause skidding and the possibility of losing control of the vehicle. Motorists should slow down, particularly on narrow or winding roads.

Citizens are also reminded that we lose a minute of daylight every day until clocks are set back in November 4. Fewer hours of daylight make it more difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists and children. Later sunrises mean that drivers need to adjust to the brighter sun at different times of the morning.

Residents are urged to follow these tips for successful driving during fall weather:

• Always keep a pair of sunglasses in your car to shield your vision from intense sun glare.
• Always keep your windshield clean of leaves. Wet leaves can get clogged under your wiper blades, impeding wiper performance and visibility.
• Do not park your vehicle over leaf piles as this can be a fire hazard.
• Allow plenty of room to stop in and emergency. Keep a greater distance between you and the car in front of you.
• Avoid driving through a leaf pile. Children enjoy jumping into leaf piles or burrowing down into them and hiding.
• Watch for frost. Keep a windshield scraper and small broom in your car.
• Decelerate or gently brake when approaching bridges and overpasses. Keep alert for shaded areas that could create black ice during morning and evening hours.

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