It is common knowledge that there are a few times that driving can become more dangerous.
- Night driving
- Long-distance driving
- Severe weather like snow, sleet, and heavy rain or wind
Weather and long-distance are pretty self-explanatory when it comes to driving. Long-distance driving can make people sleepy and cause things like highway hypnosis, and severe weather makes visibility lower, stopping times longer, and strong winds can physically push your car. But night driving has a range of things that can be considered dangerous.
While there is a lot to love about cruising down an almost empty road in the evening, you should watch out for the following things.
Tired
If you are even the slightest bit tired, you shouldn’t set off on a night drive. Most crashes actually happen between midnight and 6am when most people are sleeping. This is because people are more tempted to drive for longer than they should, as the roads are more empty. If you start to feel a little sleepy while driving, then make a stop, have some water, coffee, and a nap if you can. A short walk is a good idea too.
Animal
Depending on where you live, you might have to watch out for deer and other animals at night. Most often, these will happen at dusk or at night. And it will typically be between October and January. Using your highbeams, you will be able to spot an animal soon, and then you can take action. Most animals will scare and stop still. It is better for you to slow down and wait for the animal to recover from the shock and move on.
Defensive
Some of us are naturally defensive drivers, others aren’t. As it gets darker, it pays to change your typical style of driving to be slightly more defensive and vigilant. We all know that we shouldn’t drink before driving no matter what, so skip that entirely. Give yourself extra travel time, don’t risk speeding through lights, driving carefully will mean you are more likely to be on the right side of the law and the experienced car accident attorneys will be on your side too.
Headlights
Many people don’t consider changing the angle of their lights. Most people keep their lights tilted down and lose a lot of possible illumination. The extra light will give you a better view of the road. Check the tilt on your headlights, and where possible, adjust them before you leave for your night drive.
Highbeams aren’t often used correctly. They are very useful on roads with less light, just remember to dim them when you are within 500 feet of oncoming traffic.
Eyes Down
It is easy to become dazzled by the lights of an oncoming vehicle. When it is dark, don’t look directly at the lights of the oncoming traffic where possible. Instead, direct your eyes slightly down and away from the bright lights. You won’t take your eyes off the road, but you will avoid being dazzled.
Driving at night can be one of the most relaxing times to drive. There is less traffic, no noise and usually, a trip can take fewer hours. But when you follow a few simple tips to help make it safer, you can have an event-free and peaceful evening.