Autumn Driving Lessons

Drive Safely in Autumn

Driving in Autumn: Staying Safe During a Mast Year

As the leaves turn golden and the days grow shorter, autumn brings some of the most beautiful — and challenging — driving conditions of the year. This season, in particular, is a “Mast Year”, meaning trees are producing an unusually large amount of fruit, seeds, and nuts such as acorns, conkers, and beech nuts.

While this might be great for wildlife, it can create extra hazards on the road for drivers. Here’s what a Mast Year means for your driving, and how to stay safe behind the wheel this autumn.

What Is a Mast Year?

A Mast Year is when trees such as oaks and beeches produce a bumper crop of seeds and nuts. It doesn’t happen every year — typically every two to five years — and is triggered by a combination of weather and biological cycles.

This abundance means roads near woodland areas are more likely to be covered with fallen debris, including nuts, leaves, and branches. Combined with damp, foggy weather and shorter days, this makes for slippery and unpredictable road conditions.

Autumn Driving Hazards to Watch Out For

1. Slippery Roads from Leaves and Nuts

Wet leaves and fallen acorns can be just as slippery as ice. When driving in wooded areas or rural roads:

Reduce your speed and avoid harsh braking.
Increase your following distance — it takes longer to stop on slippery surfaces.
Stay alert near trees and shaded bends where debris tends to gather.

2. Wildlife Crossing the Roads

Autumn is a busy time for wildlife. Deer and other animals are often on the move, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Use full beam headlights when safe to do so.
Watch for animal warning signs, especially near wooded areas.
Avoid swerving — braking firmly in a straight line is safer than losing control.

3. Glare and Low Sun

The sun sits lower in the sky during autumn, creating dangerous glare during early morning and evening commutes.

Keep your windscreen clean inside and out.
Use polarised sunglasses to reduce glare.
Slow down when visibility drops.

4. Fog, Rain and Reduced Visibility

Autumn often brings sudden weather changes.

Use fog lights only when visibility is below 100 metres.
Check your wipers and replace them if they smear or squeak.
Keep headlights on even during daylight when visibility is poor.

Smart Autumn Driving Tips

Check your tyres: Make sure the tread depth is above 1.6mm (ideally 3mm in wet conditions).
Top up screenwash: Mud, salt, and debris can quickly obscure your view.
Test your lights: Days are shorter — make sure all bulbs are working properly.
Plan extra time: Slower conditions and darker mornings mean journeys can take longer.

Why This Matters for Learner Drivers

Learning to drive in autumn can actually make you a more confident and capable driver. You’ll gain experience handling a variety of weather and road conditions — from wet leaves to low visibility.

At PRIPlus School of Motoring, our instructors teach you how to stay calm and in control whatever the season brings. We focus on real-world driving skills, including hazard perception and adapting to changing conditions.

Book Your Autumn Driving Lessons Today

Whether you’re starting your driving journey, need a refresher, or want to gain confidence driving in the dark or wet weather, we can help.

Book your lesson today at priplus.co.uk and learn how to drive safely this autumn — even in a Mast Year!