To drive at night safely, there are unique risks to avoid. Driving at night is a risk factor if you’re trying to stay accident free, so here are a few tips to drive by:
- Keep your windshield clean and make sure your wipers work effectively. Streaks on your windshield create vision issues when the light hits it.
- Make sure your headlights are properly maintained and working effectively.
- Humans are wired to be awake during the day and sleeping at night. It’s how we’re naturally at our best! If you are tired, driving at night is extra risky because drowsy driving is more likely to happen between midnight and 6 am.
- Remember you’re more likely to encounter wildlife on the roads at night, so stay alert.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to allow for longer reaction times.
- Use your headlights effectively. High beams are best for rural areas or dark highways. Low beams are always necessary when other cars are around, or when you’re in a high volume area.
- To drive at night safely, make sure your vehicle’s interior is lit correctly. Reducing interior lighting distractions and dimming dashboard lights are helpful. Get this sorted out before hitting the road.
- Plan your route ahead of time, or have your GPS coordinates logged in before you start the car. Reducing distractions and increasing your confidence are two great tools for nighttime driving.
- Avoid alcohol before or while driving. It’s dangerous and could hurt yourself and others.
- Don’t speed at night. Limited light makes it hard to see upcoming road conditions, and if you’re hurtling down the road you won’t have as much time to react to prepare for possible hazards.
If an Accident Happens
Drivers should know where their emergency road kit is located in their car. Make sure it’s properly stocked and you know where yours is. Get an emergency kit if you don’t yet have one. If you get into an accident, try your best to pull over in a safe spot that is ideally well lit. If you can’t get completely off the main road, use your hazard lights as well as any flares or flashing/reflective warning signs to indicate to other drivers to slow down and that you’re on the side of the road.
Final Thoughts
Driving at night doesn’t have to be unsafe as long as you prepare beforehand. Make responsible choices, know your equipment, and be considerate. With those tips at hand, the road is clear for a great ride!