It’s not just paranoia. Driving when it’s dark out is definitely more dangerous than driving in the daytime. Accidents that occur at night are three times more likely to be fatal than during the day.
Although we physically can’t see as well at night, there are many other factors that add to the challenge. Here are six tips that could help reduce the risks.
- Stay Sober And Be Extra Defensive
Don’t drink and drive ever, but especially at night. It’s proven that we are much more likely to get into an accident in the evening after consuming alcohol. At night, it’s also a good idea to put your defensive-driving instincts on high alert!
- Combat Fatigue
Drowsy-driving crashes are more likely to happen between midnight and 6 a.m., says NHTSA, so keep this in mind when driving late at night since there may be sleepy drivers on the road. Also, keep yourself alert and don’t push yourself to drive when you’re too tired to do so safely!
- Clean Your View
Dirty or broken mirrors can scatter light and potentially increase the effects of glare when driving at night. Dirty or damaged headlights can also decrease your visibility and even cast glare towards oncoming drivers. To prevent this, clean your windshield and headlights regularly!
- Slow Down
“Speeding-related crashes account for 37 percent of nighttime-driving fatalities, says NHTSA (compared with 21 percent of those during daylight hours) due to lower visibility and shorter reaction times. For example, your headlight typically shines 160 feet in front of you, but even at 40 mph, you need 190 feet to stop.” Make sure to adjust your speed to the conditions and always allow yourself enough time to properly react to unexpected situations.
- Use High Beams When Appropriate
High beams are often underutilized, but they can be very useful in rural areas or on open roads. Just remember to dim them when you’re within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle.
- Watch For WildLife
Collisions with deer often happen in the dark or dusk, and occur most often from October through January. High beams can help you detect an animal by the reflection of their eyes. When you’re coming up on an animal, be sure and slow down to a safe speed to avoid any potential accidents.
We know that driving in the dark can sometimes feel dangerous, and that’s because it can be! Be sure that you’re covered with the right auto insurance the next time you’re on the road!
To learn more about your options, give the Corwin-Rey team a call at (360)414-8754.