Autumn brings a beautiful change in scenery — but also a few sneaky hazards on the road. One that often goes unnoticed? Wet leaves. Once they start falling and sticking to damp surfaces, they can be as slippery as ice and just as unpredictable.

Here’s how to stay safe — with a few lesser-known tips included.

1. Avoid Sudden Braking on Leaf-Covered Roads
Sounds obvious — but what many drivers don’t realise is that even low-speed braking on a thick patch of wet leaves can cause a skid. Try to brake early and gently, especially on bends and rural roads.

2. Watch Out Near Drains and Road Edges
Leaves naturally drift towards drains and kerbs. When they build up, they can block drainage, causing unexpected puddles and even mini-flooding in spots that are normally fine. Approach cautiously and avoid driving through leaf piles if you can’t see what’s underneath.

3. Mind the Markings
In some areas, wet leaves can completely cover road markings, making it harder to judge lanes or turns — especially in poor light. Drive with a little extra space and be ready for faded or hidden lines.

4. Keep Your Air Intakes Clear
If lots of leaves are caught in your car’s air intake near the windscreen or under the bonnet, they can restrict airflow to your heater or cause cabin smells. A quick brush-off when parked goes a long way.

5. Check for Leaves in Your Headlight Clusters
Falling leaves can get trapped around your headlights or fog lights. Even a few stuck behind a plastic cover can affect brightness or cause a hot spot. Give your lights a quick wipe every few days.

6. Be Cautious in the Morning and Evening
The roads may look dry, but early morning dew and late-day mist can reactivate leaf slicks that seemed fine earlier. Avoid high speeds on leaf-covered roads during those times.

7. Don't Trust That Crunchy Sound
Dry leaves might sound harmless under your tyres, but a layer of dry leaves can easily hide a wet, slippery surface underneath. It’s best to approach with the same caution as you would in light rain.

Breakdown Help, Whatever the Weather
Whether you’re tackling the school run or heading home through back lanes, Autonational is by your side. If a breakdown catches you out this autumn, we’ll get you back on the road.