Tips for driving safely at night

Tips for driving safely at night

Car accident fatalities are three times more likely to take place at night, according to research done by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, or (NHTSA).  Taking a few steps will help to reduce your risks while driving at night.

1.  Keep your vision clear. 

Visual perception has a significant effect on reaction times.  You can ensure better reaction time while driving at night by doing the following:

• *    Keep your windshield clean
• *    Keep headlights properly aimed
• *    Get your eyes examined each year
• *    Avoid looking directly at the headlights of other drivers   

2.  Slow down.

You cannot see as far ahead at night as you can during the day.  Give yourself more time to react by driving a few miles an hour slower.  Setting the cruise control can help to avoid accelerating without realizing it.

3.  Avoid impairments to your driving.

Driving while drowsy and driving after drinking alcohol are two of the most common factors in driving fatalities.  Be modest, if you are feeling the effects of fatigue, either pull over to a safe place to have a brief rest or allow another passenger to drive.  In addition, having a designated driver who has not consumed any alcohol is always the safest practice.

At NHSA, we want to help all drivers to be safe drivers.  Check out our online driver’s ed classes and basic driver safety courses.  From teen drivers seeking a learner's permit, to mature drivers seeking to save on car insurance, see how we can help you as well!