Tips for Night Driving: Stay Safe When the Days Get Shorter

With shorter days ahead, there’s a good chance that you’ll be driving after dark at some point. Unfortunately, the shadowy conditions can substantially increase the likelihood of an accident. This means you’ll need to use extra caution while behind the wheel. Here are some key night-driving tips to keep in mind.

Avoid Consuming Alcohol

Even if you stay under the legal alcohol limit, it’s still not a good idea to drink and drive. Just a couple of drinks can noticeably hinder your ability to react to emergencies. If you plan to drive at night, the best approach is to remain sober. Whether traveling on an empty back road or maneuvering through city traffic, you need to maintain a strong sense of awareness at all times.

Don’t Drive While Fatigued

Driving while tired can be just as risky as driving while under the influence of alcohol. Nonetheless, research shows that 60 percent of adult motorists are guilty of doing so.

If you happen to become drowsy while at the wheel, don’t try to push through it. Pull over and rest in a safe location. The darkness of night can actually trigger the body’s natural sleep cycle. While consuming caffeine may temporarily boost your level of alertness, there’s no substitute for quality rest.

Reduce Your Speed

Although speeding during the daytime is dangerous, this habit is even more hazardous at night. Because there’s limited visibility, it’s more difficult to spot dangers. In the blink of an eye, an obstacle such as a deer could suddenly cross your path. If you’re traveling at a fast rate of speed, you may not be able to brake in time to avoid a collision.

Be On the Lookout for Drunk Drivers

Despite the fact that many states have enacted stiff penalties for drunk driving, there are still plenty of people who ignore the potential consequences. To remain safe, learn to recognize the signs of a drunk driver.

Swerving is among the biggest indicators that a motorist is intoxicated. However, you may also notice that they are excessively braking and hugging the centerline. If a suspected drunk driver is tailgating you, pull over and allow them to pass. Stay as far away from the vehicle as possible. Of course, the next step is to call the police.

Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Properly Maintained

Routine maintenance can have a major impact on a vehicle’s safety profile. About once a month, take the time to visually check the functionality of your car’s exterior lights. Remember, cloudy headlights can substantially reduce light output. If your headlights look oxidized, have them professionally restored.

Don’t forget to inspect your windshield wipers as well. When driving with worn-out wipers, the last thing you want to encounter is a rainstorm. This is especially true at night.

Be Mindful of Oncoming Headlight Glare

When encountering an approaching vehicle at night, the powerful glare of its high beams can momentarily blind you. Instead of looking directly at the shining headlights, slightly shift your eyes to the right edge of the road. The white fog line will help guide you.

Car Accident Risks

In 2022, there 4,488 traffic deaths in the state of California. While car accidents occur more frequently during the day due to more cars being on the road, nighttime accidents prove to more often be fatal. As the days get shorter and more drivers must drive after dark, it is important to practice safe driving may avoiding alcohol, reducing speed, using headlights appropriately and avoiding driving while tired.  Plan ahead so that you can arrive safely at your destination.