Sweden faces rising autumn road hazards from leaves and wildlife

Sweden is facing increased seasonal risks on its roads due to autumn weather and rising wildlife collisions. The Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI) warns that fallen leaves can become extremely slippery when wet or frozen, as traffic crushes them and releases proteins that create a surface similar to ice. VTI suggests that municipalities implement weekly inspections to mitigate this danger.

Simultaneously, insurance company IF reports a significant rise in wildlife-related accidents across various Swedish municipalities. In Stenungsund, Tjörn, and Orust, 591 accidents were recorded in 2025, with Stenungsund seeing its highest number in a decade. In Tidaholm, accidents reached a record high in 2025, with over eight incidents occurring weekly during the autumn months.

Roe deer are the primary cause of these collisions nationwide. Experts advise drivers to reduce speed and remain vigilant during dawn and dusk, when animal activity is highest, to avoid serious accidents involving both large and small animals.