Driving when it is bright outside is one thing. Driving at night is a totally different ballgame.
Not only does nighttime driving cause many people worries, but it comes with its own set of hazards. Nevertheless, you do not need to let driving at night give you nightmares! Instead, follow these 10 tips to help you learn to drive at night safely.
1. Stay Vigilant and on the Defensive
When the sun goes down, you need to be aware of your surroundings more than ever. Drive defensively by turning down the volume on your music and avoiding distractions like eating in the car. Train yourself to concentrate primarily on the road and be wary of everything from deer to drunk drivers.
2. Re-Aim Your Headlights
Headlights are often ill-suited to properly illuminate the roads. Have your headlights checked and re-positioned, if necessary. If you are comfortable around autos, you may be able to do this yourself by following your manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Clean Your Windows
Glare from other drivers’ beams can blind you to objects in the road or oncoming vehicles. Be sure your windows are sparkling before you head out for an evening drive.
4. Avoid Looking Directly at the Beams of Other Vehicles
You may be tempted to look straight into traffic coming from the opposite direction. However, this can make it tough for you to see because of temporary vision problems caused by looking into oncoming headlights. Instead, look down and toward the white line on the right side of the road. That way, you’ll still be able to track the road, but you will only catch oncoming headlights in your peripheral view.
5. Do Not Drive When You Are Exhausted
Fatigue is one of the most distracting feelings to any driver. When you sense that you are becoming tired, find a safe place to pull off and grab a drink or just walk around. Otherwise, you might hurt yourself or someone else by nodding off at the wheel.
6. Take off Your Shades
Many people have a habit of wearing sunglasses when driving. During the day, this protects their eyes. At night, sunglasses can make it difficult to see. If you have prescription sunglasses, swap them for your regular glasses after the sun goes down.
7. Be on the Lookout for Pedestrians
You might not assume that someone would be walking along a rural road at midnight, but how could you possibly know? Pedestrians are everywhere at all times of the day and evening. Drive as if you might encounter one around any blind turn.
8. Avoid Tailgating
Yes, you want to get to your destination as soon as possible. But tailgating is not the answer. It only limits your ability to brake in time to avoid a collision. Stay around three to five car lengths back from the nearest vehicle.
9. Let Someone Else Drive If You Have Been Drinking
Even one glass of alcohol can lower your reaction time. Name a designated driver or take a taxi, Uber or Lyft if you have any alcohol.
10. Get Checked for Eye Problems
Do you notice halos around lights when you drive at night? Talk to your optometrist about your issues to correct them.
Feeling like you are ready to tackle the darkness? Be confident and plan ahead so you always safely get where you are going. For more information about safe driving tips or auto insurance, contact us at Strock Insurance.
