Earlier Evenings and Falling Leaves Mean New Road Hazards -- Follow GEICO's Tips for Safe Driving This Autumn

WASHINGTON--September 30, 2011: This fall as the days grow shorter, leaves begin to turn and weather conditions change, GEICO is reminding drivers how to help stay safe on the roads:

1. Adjust to shorter days. Sunset arrives earlier with each passing day in autumn, even before clocks are set back at the end of daylight savings time on Sunday, Nov. 6. Adapt to darkened afternoons and evenings by using headlights when appropriate and remaining extra vigilant behind the wheel.
2. Watch for children. In residential areas children are once again congregating at schools and school bus stops in the mornings and afternoons. Be mindful of school zones and bus stops and make sure to come to a complete stop when the red lights on school buses are flashing.
3. Keep an eye out for deer. Deer migration and mating season generally runs from October to December, and more deer-vehicle collisions occur in this period than at any other time of year, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). Drive with caution in deer-crossing areas and use high beam headlights at night when there is no oncoming traffic.
4. Maintain visibility. Have headlight alignment checked during regular maintenance stops and wiper blades changed at least once a year, and in precipitation be sure to always use both to ensure you have optimal visibility and that other drivers can also see you.
5. Be cautious around fallen leaves. Leaf-covered roads can be as slippery as ice when wet. Drive slowly, especially when making turns, on forested and tree-covered roads. Leaves can also get stuck under windshield wipers and clog engine parts, so make sure to keep wipers and grills clear of debris prior to your journey.
6. Prepare for frost. As temperatures begin to dip, frost is more likely to accumulate on your vehicle and affect visibility. Keep a windshield scraper or brush in your car and remove any frost from your windshield and windows. Also, drive carefully under shaded areas like bridges and trees where the temperatures are cooler and roads may be icy.

For more information on safe driving, go to GEICO's online auto safety library at Geico Auto Safety.

GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States. The company is celebrating its 75^th anniversary this year. GEICO handles auto insurance coverage for 10 million private passenger auto policies and insures more than 16 million vehicles.

In addition to auto insurance, GEICO offers customers insurance products for their motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and mobile homes. Coverage for life, boats, homes and apartments is available through the GEICO Insurance Agency. Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.

As a member of the Berkshire Hathaway group of companies, GEICO is rated A++ for financial strength by A.M. Best Company and ranks at the top of several national customer satisfaction surveys.