Driving already has its own risks. But if you’re wondering if driving is really more dangerous at night, let us confirm it. The National Safety Council reported that traffic fatality is approximately three times greater at night.
With that being said, it is important that you know what precautions you should take whenever you’re driving after dark. Here are some tips to help you safely drive during the night:
How to Drive Safely at Night?
Clean Your Windows, Mirrors, and Windshield
When driving, you need to see clearly. And since it’s dark outside, you can have a hard time just doing that. With that, make sure that your driving visibility is sufficient. You can do this by ensuring that your windows, mirrors, and windshield are all regularly cleaned.
Make Sure All Lights Are Working Properly
You don’t just need to see what’s on the road, you also need other drivers and pedestrians to see you. That’s why it is important to make sure that all your lights are working properly before you hit the road, especially at night.
Aside from checking if they are working properly, you might also want to check if the lights are pointed correctly. Put in a position that allows you to to see the road clearly, while not blinding oncoming drivers. If you think any of your lights is not aimed correctly, you can go to a repair facility for assistance.
Slow Down
One of the most common reasons behind motor vehicle accidents is speeding. And since it’s darker outside, it will be more difficult for you to see what is in front of you during the night.
Another reason to follow this tip is because you are more likely to encounter a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs at night. By reducing your speed and increasing your distance from the vehicle in front of you, you give yourself more time to act when something unwanted happens.
Be Aware of Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is a common cause for motor vehicle accidents in the U.S. What’s worse is it claims hundreds of lives per year.
Did you know that data from the National Sleep Foundation reveals that about 20 percent of adult drivers in the country have admitted that they have fallen asleep while driving? What’s alarming about this is that drowsy driving puts everyone on the road at risk, not just the drowsy driver.
Drowsiness greatly affects a person’s reaction time and awareness of hazards on the road. So whenever you feel drowsy when driving, pull over to a safe, well-lit area and rest for a few minutes. Give your body time to recharge before you hit the road. If you have another licensed driver with you, ask him to drive the car instead so you can reach your destination faster.
Drive With Your Full Attention
Distracted driving should be avoided whether you’re driving during the day or night. But it’s really important to be extra cautious at night as dangers of driving are exaggerated after dark.
Make sure that your full attention is on the road. Avoid any activity that diverts attention from driving such as using your phone, smoking, eating, fiddling with the radio, and more.
Make Your Night Driving A Safe Journey
By taking these tips into action the next time you hit the roads after dark, you will be more likely to have a safe nighttime driving experience. Always remember that part of being a responsible driver is ensuring not just your safety, but also of those people in the vehicle and on the road with you. That said, be a responsible driver not just at night, but every time you get behind the wheel.
