Slippery When Wet (Driving on Wet Leaves)
September 19, 2021
When the leaves fall, you might take a sightseeing trip to see them at peak color. Or you may simply live in a spot where there are a lot of trees. When those leaves get wet, you'd be surprised to learn just how slippery they can be.
We all know ice is slippery to drive on. What causes tires to slip on ice is a thin layer of water that comes between the road and your tires. Wet leaves can have the same effect. The surfaces of leaves are super slick when they're dry, even worse when you add a little moisture. There's one other thing about leaves. They are smaller than each tire's footprint, so your tread grips the pavement with uneven traction.
One study showed that your stopping distance can more than double on a surface covered with wet leaves when compared to that same road when it's dry. Double! That can spell trouble. So if you find yourself heading into an area with wet leaves on the road, slow down before you get into a jam. If you do start skidding, use the same driving techniques as you would on ice. Let off the accelerator, resist jamming on the brakes and steer into the skid. Again, speed can get you into trouble fast on a slippery surface.
One thing that can help is having tires that are appropriate for the way you drive and the places you travel. Your service advisor can offer suggestions for tires that are right for you. Have a technician examine your tread depth and the condition of your tires' rubber. Sun can break down rubber over time, and age can cause tires to fail, even if their tread seems to be deep enough.
Your tire is the point of traction between your vehicle and the road. Uncontrolled skids spell trouble and danger. Slow down when you see wet leaves on the road. They can make traction disappear before you know it.
Perfect Tune Auto Repair
5434 S. Old US Highway 23
Brighton, Michigan 48116
810.227.9903
https://www.perfecttuneautorepair.com
Need Service?
More articles from Perfect Tune Auto Repair

Clean Slate (Protecting Vehicle's Finish)
March 30, 2025
Winter is one of the hardest times to keep your vehicle clean. But did you know neglecting to wash your vehicle in winter could cost you a significant amount of money in the long run? Here's why. Many areas deal with snow and ice in the winter, and the salt and sand that are used to keep the road... More

Pinch Petroleum Pennies! (Fuel Saving Tips)
March 23, 2025
If you saw a dollar bill on the ground, you'd pick it up, right? Well, whether you find that dollar on the ground or in savings at the gas pump, money is money, and here are some ways to hold on to more of it. Slowing down is the easiest way to save fuel, especially for every speed increase over ... More

Put the Brakes On! (Brake Caliper Replacement)
March 16, 2025
Keeping your vehicle's brakes in top shape is one of the most important things you can do for your safety and those on the road with you. Most drivers know a little about brake pads and rotors but maybe not so much about another brake component called the calipers. Disc brakes work by a mechanica... More