As daylight hours grow shorter and the end of daylight-saving time approaches, AAA is urging drivers and pedestrians to exercise extra caution. Morning twilight, afternoon sun glare and fading evening light can make it far more difficult to see and be seen, increasing the risk of crashes.
“This time of year, even familiar commutes can become more hazardous,” says Lori Weaver Hawkins, public affairs manager, AAA Club Alliance. “Many commuters and students are already on the roads and sidewalks before the sun has fully risen, while low-angle sunlight can create blinding glare during the afternoon commute. Drivers need to slow down, stay focused, and be especially alert for pedestrians and bicyclists. And pedestrians should never assume a driver has seen them.”
Analysis of Kentucky State Police data shows that in 2025, there were 1,621 crashes across the commonwealth that involved pedestrians, resulting in 1,239 injuries and 102 deaths. So far this year, there have been 1,314 pedestrian-involved crashes, resulting in 993 injuries and 71 fatalities, as of October 12.
Reduced visibility isn’t the only hazard drivers face this time of year. Fall also brings increased deer activity, particularly around dawn and dusk, creating another potential danger for motorists when visibility is already compromised.
“The risk of a deer-related crash isn’t limited to rural highways,” Weaver Hawkins says. “Deer frequently venture onto city streets, especially near parks and wooded areas. When their peak activity coincides with reduced visibility, drivers have less time to spot an animal and react safely.”
Seasonal weather can further complicate driving conditions. Cooler overnight temperatures, combined with moisture in the air, can lead to early morning fog, reducing visibility at a time when natural light is already limited.
Safety recommendations for motorists:
• Slow down and stay alert. Adjust your speed to visibility and roadway conditions, and watch carefully for pedestrians, bicyclists and wildlife, especially near intersections, crosswalks and wooded areas.
• Prepare for sun glare. Keep your windshield clean inside and out, use your sun visor and wear polarized sunglasses when appropriate. Increase following distance and reduce speed when glare limits your view.
• Use headlights appropriately. Turn on headlights in low-light conditions, even when it’s not fully dark. In fog, use low beams rather than high beams, which can reflect off moisture and make visibility worse.
• Watch for deer. Be especially cautious near wooded areas and deer-crossing signs. If a deer enters the roadway, brake firmly and stay in your lane rather than swerving into another vehicle or off the road. Remember that deer often travel in groups.
• Use extra caution at crosswalks. Yield to pedestrians as required by law, reduce speed when approaching crossings and be prepared to stop. Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk.
• Avoid distractions and impairment. Keep your attention on the road and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which impair judgment, reaction time and coordination. Keep in mind that some prescription medications and even over-the-counter drugs can cause impairment.
Recommendations for pedestrians:
• Use sidewalks and designated crossings. Cross at intersections or marked crosswalks whenever possible. Avoid crossing between parked vehicles or in locations where drivers may have difficulty seeing you.
• Look in all directions before crossing. Watch for approaching vehicles and turning traffic, even when you have the right of way. Make sure drivers have stopped before stepping into the roadway.
• Follow pedestrian signals. Use crosswalk buttons when available and begin crossing when the signal indicates it is safe. Continue watching for vehicles throughout the crossing.
• Make yourself visible. Wear bright or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking in darkness or low-light conditions. Do not rely on drivers being able to see you.
• Stay focused on your surroundings. Put away phones and other electronic devices, and avoid headphones that prevent you from hearing approaching traffic.
• Watch for backing vehicles. Be alert for illuminated reverse lights and vehicles entering or exiting driveways and parking spaces.
• Walk facing traffic when sidewalks aren’t available. Stay as far from moving vehicles as practical and, where possible, choose routes with better lighting and visibility.
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