Driving Safely in DeKalb County: Harvest Season, Deer, and Changing Light Conditions
If you’ve spent time driving through DeKalb County, you know our open roads lined with fields and farmland have a charm all their own. There’s something special about cruising past the familiar scenery, especially during this time of year. But with the beauty of fall comes its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to driving. Between the farmers out harvesting and wildlife moving around, it’s important to stay alert on the roads.
After years of driving these roads and hearing stories from customers in the shop, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly things can go wrong, whether it’s a fender bender with farm equipment or a close call with a deer. As we get deeper into the season, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe drive through DeKalb County.
Navigating Harvest Season and Farm Equipment
One of the most obvious changes this time of year is the presence of farm equipment on the roads. Farmers are out bringing in their crops, and it’s not uncommon to find yourself stuck behind a massive combine or tractor. These machines are slow and they’re big, taking up more than one lane, which can make getting around them tricky.
Here’s my advice: slow down and be patient. I get it, everyone’s in a hurry these days, but speeding past a tractor isn’t worth the risk. These machines are a bit unpredictable, and they can kick up dirt and dust, making it even harder to see. Most of the time, they’ll pull off the road soon enough, and if you do need to pass, make sure you have plenty of space and visibility to do it safely.
Speaking of dust, turn on your headlights even when it’s not dark yet. During harvest, that dust can hang in the air and reduce visibility for everyone, so it’s a good habit to get into.
Deer: A Common Sight in Fall
This time of year also brings another challenge: deer. As fall rolls in, deer become more active, especially in the evenings. In fact, they’re most likely to be on the move between 6-9 p.m., which also happens to be when visibility starts to get tricky with the setting sun. October and November are prime months for deer-vehicle collisions, so it’s important to be on high alert.
Let’s be honest, deer are unpredictable. One minute they’re grazing by the road, and the next, they’re running like they’ve just robbed a bank, so keep your eyes on the edges of the road. And remember, if you see one, there’s a good chance more are nearby.
If a deer suddenly appears in front of you, brake firmly, but don’t swerve. Swerving to avoid hitting a deer can easily lead to a worse accident, especially on rural roads where there’s little room to maneuver. Your best bet is to slow down and hope the deer moves out of the way.
Another good tip: use your high beams when you can. High beams light up the sides of the road, making it easier to spot deer before they cross your path. Just be sure to switch them off when other cars are coming.
Adapting to Changing Light Conditions
Fall is full of shifting light conditions, and that can make driving more challenging. If you’re out early in the morning or heading home in the evening, the sun’s position can cause serious glare. There have been plenty of times when the sun’s glare has made it almost impossible to see what’s ahead, whether it’s a deer or another car.
Keep a pair of sunglasses handy and use your sun visor when the glare is intense. If it’s still tough to see, slow down. It’s better to take your time than risk missing something important on the road.
On the flip side, once the sun sets, the light fades quickly. It might seem like it gets darker faster than you expect, especially on rural roads where there aren’t many streetlights. Turn your headlights on earlier than usual, and make sure your lights are in good working order. It’ll help you see what’s ahead and make sure others can see you, too.
Watch Out for Fog
As the weather cools, fog becomes more common, especially in the early mornings. It can settle low near fields and in valleys, making it hard to see what’s up ahead. If you find yourself driving through fog, slow down and increase the distance between you and the car in front. And remember—use your low beams or fog lights. High beams will just reflect off the fog and make visibility even worse.
Stay Prepared and Stay Safe
Driving in DeKalb County during the fall means being ready for anything—from slow-moving farm equipment to deer suddenly crossing the road. It’s all about staying alert and being prepared for the unique challenges this season brings.
If you’ve had a close call recently or your car isn’t handling these conditions as well as it used to, stop by the shop. We’ve been part of this community for years, and we’re always here to help keep your car in top shape, no matter what the season throws at you.
Whether you’re out on Route 23 or heading down the backroads, stay safe and enjoy the drive—just be sure to keep an eye out for the unexpected!
Safe travels!
