15 Safety Tips for Driving at Night

Stay safe after sundown. Fast facts:

• The accident death rate is 3 times greater at night.
• 32% of crashes involve at least one driver who has consumed alcohol.
• Vision has a 90% influence on the reaction time of a driver.
• A 50-year-old driver needs 2 times more light to see well than a 30-year-old driver.
• Weekend nights are the most dangerous time for fatal crashes.

Night driving dangers:

1. Reduced vision. Depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision are all affected after sundown.
2. Drowsy driving. Drowsiness makes driving more difficult by dulling concentration and slowing reaction time.

Vision Matters. Eye exam recommendations for drivers:

• Drivers aged 40 and under should get eye exams every 3 years.
• Drivers aged 41-60 should get eye exams every 2 years.
• Drivers aged 60 and older should get eye exams every year.

Driving at night safety tips

1. Keep headlights, taillights, signal lights and windows clean.
2. Check to be sure headlights are properly aimed, even in a new car.
3. Dim instrument panel and dash lights.
4. Turn headlights on in early twilight.
5. Reduce speed and increase following distances.
6. Make sure your speed would allow you to come to a complete stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights.
7. Do not use high beams when following or approaching another vehicle.
8. Use the right edge of the road as a visual guide if blinded by oncoming lights.
9. Watch for the flash of headlights; they may indicate approaching hills or hairpin curves.
10. Raise or lower the rearview mirror to eliminate bright reflection from following cars.
11. Periodically stop for light snacks, exercise or a nap.
12. Wear glasses with anti-reflective lenses, even with perfect vision.
13. Keep your eyes moving rather than focusing on one area.
14. Watch for deer (where there’s one, there are usually more).
15. And, of course, never drink and drive!