Fall is beautiful in New York, but it can also make driving more dangerous. A new study found that New York ranks tenth in the country for the share of deadly crashes that happen during the fall months.

Nearly 30% of New York Fatal Crashes Happened in Fall

Researchers counted fatal crashes that happened in September, October, and November. In New York, 1,498 fatal crashes happened during those three months. That equals 28.60% of all fatal crashes in the state during the five year period.

That means that, more than one out of every four deadly crashes in New York happened during fall. The study was based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System.

New York Ranks Tenth in the Nation

North Dakota ranked first, with 30.63% of its fatal crashes happening in fall. New Jersey, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and New Hampshire rounded out the top five. New York came in just behind Oklahoma and ahead of Utah and Montana.

The ranking does not mean New York had the tenth highest number of fatal crashes overall. It looks at what share of each state’s deadly crashes happened during the fall season.

Wet Leaves and Darker Nights Can Be Dangerous

Fall can bring rain, fog, frost, darker evenings, and leaves on the road. Wet leaves can be slippery, especially when they cover road lines, potholes, or other hazards. This is also the time of year when drivers may face changing weather during one trip. A dry road in the afternoon can become wet, icy, or harder to see on the way home after dark.

Simple Steps Can Help Keep Drivers Safe

Before the really cold weather arrives, it is a good idea to check your tires, brakes, lights, and windshield wipers. Fall driving in New York can be peaceful and pretty, but it is still important to stay alert. A little extra care behind the wheel could make a real difference.

Upstate New York Ski Resorts Offer an “Eye in the Sky” Each Autumn!

Everybody is trying to find that “just perfect” place to enjoy the splendor of an Upstate New York fall season. May we suggest you take a ride on a ski lift to the top of any of our wonderful ski mountains? The view is waiting for you!

Gallery Credit: Chuck D’Imperio

Ithaca Fall Foliage Is a Kaleidoscope of Color Right Now: See the Photos

Fall foliage is lighting up Ithaca, NY, right now. Browse photos of the vivid reds and golds across the area.

Gallery Credit: Traci Taylor