Autumn driving safety tips for private hire drivers
The Otto TeamOctober 13, 2025
As the seasons change, so do the driving conditions - and autumn can be one of the most demanding times of year for private hire drivers. From darker evenings to slippery roads, staying safe means being ready for whatever the weather brings.
At Otto Car, your safety matters to us. We make safety our priority in everything we do - from our car plans and maintenance support to the driving advice guides we share - so you can stay confident behind the wheel.
With our all-in-one Rent to Buy and PCO Car Hire plans, you’ll have everything you need to drive with confidence and peace of mind, no matter the season. Plus, with our wide range of new and used electric vehicles (EVs), autumn driving doesn’t have to be difficult. EVs offer a smoother, quieter, and more efficient drive - helping you enjoy your days on the road.
1. Check your tyres regularly
Autumn roads can quickly become slippery due to wet conditions, fallen leaves, and even early signs of black ice. Make sure your tyres are in tip-top condition with at least 1.6mm of tread (as stated by the Highway Code) and properly inflated to maintain grip and prevent skidding.
With our PCO Car Hire plan, you’ll get free tyre replacements at 2mm tread depth - so you can keep driving safely and confidently, without worrying about extra costs (damage not covered.)
2. Keep your lights clean
As shorter days and darker evenings set in, low visibility becomes a real hazard. Regularly clean your headlights and fog lights to make sure you can see clearly and be seen by others.
Make sure your fog lights are only used when you have poor visibility below 100 metres (around the length of a football pitch), as outlined in the Highway Code. But remember, you must switch them off when visibility has improved.
And don’t forget to check your road markings - they can be harder to see in reduced visibility or heavy rain, especially in urban areas.
Check out our full guide on how to clean your car - a special edition packed with tips tailored for private hire drivers.
3. Watch out for glare and low sun
Autumn road hazards aren’t just on the ground - they can be in the sky too. Low sun and glare during sunrise or sunset can affect your visibility while driving. The Highway Code has rules around when you should use your sidelights around sunset and sunrise. Keep a clean windscreen and have a pair of sunglasses handy to reduce glare.
Make sure you keep your headlights dipped if you’re overtaking and only change to main beam if you really need to. You should also be mindful to not dazzle other drivers if you use them.
4. Slow down on wet or leaf-covered roads
Fallen leaves may look harmless, but they can hide potholes and reduce grip, especially when wet. Combine that with wet conditions, strong winds, and slippery surfaces, and braking distances can increase dramatically.
Drive at reduced speeds, avoid harsh braking, and keep your distance - particularly on autumnal roads or when visibility is reduced by fog or heavy rain.
With the roads becoming more unpredictable during autumn, heavier traffic is likely at busy times. The good news is, electric cars are built for this. Thanks to regenerative braking, they recover energy every time you slow down - helping you save on running costs while also reducing brake wear.
5. Be prepared for fog and changing weather
Fog, mist, and colder temperatures are common at this time of year. Make sure your fog lights and low beams are working properly, and always maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
If you’re driving near school zones, drive carefully - children may be harder to spot during foggy mornings or low visibility conditions.
Did you know?
Electric vehicles (EVs) warm up much faster than petrol or diesel cars since they don’t rely on engine heat. That means quicker de-misting and defogging on cold, damp autumn mornings - helping you see clearly and get on the road sooner.
Plus, with helpful features like pre-conditioning, that means you can heat up your car before you even get in it - saving you an extra job ahead of your day.
6. Keep your car in tip-top condition
Regular maintenance is key to safe driving. Check your brakes, wipers, and fluid levels, and make sure your car windows are clear to prevent poor visibility.
If you drive an EV, you’ll benefit from less maintenance issues due to fewer moving parts, but it’s still important to check your tyres, brakes, and lights regularly.
Private hire drivers covering long hours should schedule regular checks as maintaining a roadworthy vehicle is a driver’s responsibility.
7. Plan your breaks and stay alert
Shorter days and darker evenings can make drivers feel more tired than usual. Schedule regular breaks during your shift - especially when driving in wet or foggy conditions.
Keep hydrated, stretch your legs, and if you’re feeling fatigued, pull over safely. Autumn driving conditions can be unpredictable, but staying alert keeps you, your passengers, and other road users safe.
Drive safe, stay smart
Autumn may bring its share of road hazards, but with careful preparation, every journey can be safer and smoother.
At Otto Car, we’re here to help private hire drivers stay protected and confident - whether through expert driving advice, flexible car plans, or ongoing support for your driving career.
Our Driver Development Team, made up of expert driving instructors, is always on hand to support our driver community with practical safety advice and guidance. We care about your safety and want to make sure nothing stands in the way of you staying on the road and driving towards success.
Take the next step with Otto Car
Starting out as a private hire driver can feel overwhelming at time - but with Otto Car, you’re never on your own. We offer more than just a car; we provide the support, guidance, and community you need to succeed.
Explore our range of electric vehicles through our Rent to Buy or PCO Car Hire plan that fits your needs. With our all-inclusive plans, you know that the weekly costs are clear and there won’t be surprises.
Visit one of our London hubs or call 02039951316. The friendly Otto Team is here to help.
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