Are you having trouble driving at night? Is paranoia getting the better part of you when driving at night? Well, you might be an exceptional driver, but driving at night is another ordeal altogether. According to NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), fatal accidents likely occur at night, compared to daytime.
When driving at night, there is less time and room to stop. This is because you see less of where you are heading. However, circumstances may force you to drive at night. If that happens, here are hit list tips that will help you drive safely and arrive at your designated destination safely.
Watch Out for Pedestrians
Cyclists and riders are advised to wear protective gear. However, pedestrians don’t. Therefore, it can be a tedious task to see pedestrians at night. Consequently, it’s essential to reduce your speed at night and have a keen eye when driving on poorly lit roads.
It can be challenging to see joggers and walkers at night, especially when you find yourself at an intersection. Ensure there is no pedestrian stepping off the curb before you make your move.
Avoid Distractions When Driving
As a driver, you need to avoid distractions at all costs. Taking attention off the highway is extremely dangerous when driving at night or during the daytime. Therefore, avoid fiddling with your music system or texting your loved ones as it can result in a terrible ordeal. Remember, the reaction time is slower at night because of daytime tiredness.
Avoid Alcohol at All Cost
Did you know that you risk your life and that of a pedestrian when you drive under the influence of alcohol? According to NHTSA, more than 40% of fatal accidents are alcohol related. After dark, consider capitalizing on defensive driving skills to identify drunk driving signs.
Always keep your distance if you suspect your fellow driver is driving under the influence of alcohol at night. Additionally, you can help prevent a fatal accident by alerting necessary authorities should you identify an instance of careless driving.
Ensure Your Lights Are in Good Working Order
Are your brake lights, fog lights, and different versions of light bars working correctly? Well, you need to see other drivers and be seen when driving at night. Therefore, your car’s turn signals should be seen from a distance without blinding other road users.
Ensure your car is well serviced to avoid emergencies, especially at night. Also, turn your lights on thirty minutes before sundown. This way, other road users will see you approaching them.
Use Natural Stimulants to Combat Fatigue
Crashes caused by drowsy driving happens between midnight and 5 a.m., according to highway patrol agencies. Therefore, you’re likely to encounter a fatigued driver when driving at night. Always be on the watch out and use natural stimulants such as caffeine to keep you active. You can also pull over when you sight a motel, have an energy drink, and refuel your car.
Final Thoughts
Headlights help drivers gauge the stopping time and distance. Driving a car with faulty lights can therefore jeopardize your night driving. The above tips will help you enjoy your night drive and arrive at your destination in real-time.
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