Safe Driving Tips: Driving at Night
Night driving can be appealing and peaceful due to reduced traffic. As the sun sets, however, you are presented with new hazards that can make driving more dangerous and increase your risk of a serious accident.
The best way to avoid the potential hazards associated with night driving is to understand what causes nighttime accidents. First, darkness causes poor visibility, which reduces your ability to judge speed and distance as well as alters your depth perception. Fatigue is another common problem that results in nighttime automobile accidents. Finally, any vision impairment, such as night blindness, contributes to your risk of an accident when driving at night.
Fortunately, you can take some steps to stay safe when driving at night. Follow these simple tips to reduce your risk of an accident the next time you’re driving after dusk.
Tips for driving at night
- Prepare your car – Before driving at night, check your headlights. Make sure they are clean, operating and adjusted properly. Position your side and rearview mirrors to reduce glare and ensure your taillights and other lights are working, too. This not only improves your visibility, but also makes it easier for others to see your vehicle.
- Prevent halos and glare – Clean your windshield and eyeglasses before driving at night. A buildup of dirt, oil and other substances can prevent the proper diffusion of light, resulting in halos and glares.
- Be courteous – Use your low beams when other drivers are on the road. High beams can temporarily blind drivers, especially those in oncoming traffic. When confronted by another car’s high beams, shift your gaze to the side of the road. Use the line as a guide to steer until you are safely away from the offending automobile.
- Reduce speed – Driving too fast reduces your visibility, especially if you outdrive your headlights. To avoid an accident, slow down when driving at night and maintain a stopping distance within the area illuminated by your headlights.
- Increase following distance – Leave more space between your car and the one ahead of you. If you need to stop suddenly, the extra distance reduces the risk you will hit another car.
- Stay alert – Especially at night, frequent stops can help prevent driving fatigue during a long trip. If you become sleepy, pull over at a rest stop or hotel where you can rest safely. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid driving while distracted.
- Drive sober – Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs and some prescription medications, such as sedatives and pain killers, increases your risk of an accident – even more so at night.
- Check your vision – Visit your optometrist at least once a year to have your eyesight checked. Driving at night becomes more dangerous if you have an untreated eye condition or an incorrect prescription for your lenses.
Finally, always maintain proper auto insurance coverage. Ask Nationwide Insurance for an On Your Side® Review or a free online auto insurance quote . An agent can help you choose the smartest coverage options at an affordable price. For more information, visit nationwide.com.
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