Having to drive at night is a challenging journey for most people. Many roads are dark. Some lack adequate lighting. The headlights from oncoming vehicles can sometimes blind drivers.
The risks of nighttime driving are considerable. The following tips may help you to remain safer if you have to get on the road at night.
Ensure your headlights are properly adjusted
Improperly adjusted headlights can either impair your visibility or blind other drivers. Check that your headlights are correctly aligned and functioning well. This improves your ability to see the road ahead and ensures you’re not a hazard to oncoming traffic. Regular maintenance checks can help detect any issues, including dimming bulbs that need replacing.
Reduce speed and increase the following distance
Driving at night requires more caution due to reduced visibility and the potential for unexpected obstacles. Reducing your speed gives you more time to react to unforeseen circumstances, such as sudden stops by other drivers. Increasing your following distance is also crucial. This extra space compensates for the decreased visibility and reaction time and provides a buffer zone between you and the vehicle ahead.
Use high beams correctly
High beams can significantly improve visibility on unlit roads, but they must be used correctly to avoid blinding other drivers. Switching to low beams is essential when you see an oncoming vehicle or are following another car closely. High beams can help you spot hazards at a greater distance.
Take breaks to avoid fatigue
Driving at night can be more tiring than during the day, as darkness can increase the strain on your eyes and make you feel more fatigued. To combat this, take regular breaks to rest and refresh yourself. If you’re feeling particularly sleepy, it’s better to pull over in a safe location and take a nap rather than risk falling asleep at the wheel.
Avoid distractions
Distractions are a major hazard when driving at any time but can be even more dangerous at night when visibility is reduced. Keep your focus on the road, and avoid using your phone or adjusting the radio while driving. If you need to use navigation, set it up before you start driving, and use voice commands to make adjustments if necessary.
Even if you take all the right precautions before night driving, other drivers might not be so careful. This can lead to a crash that causes injuries. Victims of such crashes may opt to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against at-fault parties. Legal assistance is beneficial in these cases so that victims can focus on healing while their claims progress.