Millions of car accidents happen every year. It’s estimated that half of all car accidents occur at night.
Drivers who need to drive at night should consider the following tips on defensive driving. These can help you stay safe as the hours of daylight decrease this time of year.
Use your high beams when appropriate
A driver’s visibility is lowest at night. Drivers can take advantage of their high beams to increase their range of vision. However, high beams can temporarily blind other drivers, which is why drivers should still be cautious when they are used.
Change your headlight bulbs if they burn out
Just like nearly everything in a car, the bulbs in the headlights need to be checked regularly. Drivers may not have their full range of vision at night if their light bulbs are dim. It’s also important to keep your headlights clean.
Dim any interior lights
Drivers have some natural night vision. This night vision isn’t often good enough on its own for drivers to drive without headlights. However, lights in a car can disrupt a driver’s night vision and make it harder to see the road.
Don’t use your phone
There are multiple reasons to not use a phone at any time of day, especially at night. Phones lead to distracted driving and can cause accidents. Phone screens can also impair a driver’s vision.
Don’t dive while drowsy
Drowsiness is a hidden danger to drivers. A drowsy driver may have impaired vision and poor judgment. They could also fall asleep behind the wheel. Drivers may need to pull into a safe place and sleep if they feel drowsy.
If you suffered injuries in an auto accident caused by another driver who wasn’t so careful while driving at night, you have the right to seek compensation for your expenses and damages.
