Why Should You Drive Slower at Night?
November 18th, 2020 by Fix Auto USA
Proceed with caution when driving at night. Otherwise, you could cause an auto collision that puts you and others in danger.
Night Driving: Here’s What You Need to Know
Driving fast at night can be dangerous for several reasons, including:
1. Poor Vision
As people get older, it can become more difficult for people to see clearly in low-light conditions. In addition, cataracts, astigmatism, degenerative eye diseases, and other medical conditions can compromise a driver’s ability to clearly see the road at night.
2. Fatigue
Drivers may be more prone to drowsy or fatigued driving at night. Meanwhile, a drowsy or fatigued driver is increasingly susceptible to distractions, which can result in a collision. A drowsy or fatigued driver may also be prone to falling asleep behind the wheel.
3. Rush Hour
Roadways tend to get more crowded during evening rush hour when many motorists are eager to get home from work. These motorists may want to drive fast to get home as quickly as possible. It can also get dark during rush hour, which can increase the risk for drivers who ignore the rules of the road.
Driving slowly at night can make a world of difference for you and other motorists. If you understand the dangers of night driving, you can safely navigate dark roads and minimize the risk of a collision.
Night Driving Safety Tips
There are many things you can do to reduce the risk of a collision at night, including:
1. Practice Defensive Driving
Along with driving slowly, you should turn off your cell phone, avoid eating and drinking, and eliminate any potential driving distractions. You should also follow the speed limit and comply with all traffic signs.
2. Maintain a Clear View
Clean your car’s headlights and windshield regularly, so you have no trouble seeing the roads clearly at night. If your headlights stop working, you should get them replaced by a certified auto mechanic as soon as possible. Or, if your windshield is dirty or damaged, make sure to address the issue right away.
3. Stay Away from Two-Lane Highways
Whenever possible, avoid night driving on two-lane highways. Typically, there is less light at night and more curves and hills on two-lane highways than freeways, increasing the risk of a collision. Nighttime glare from oncoming cars’ headlights can also hamper your ability to see clearly.
4. Activate Your High Beams When It Is Appropriate to Do So
Use your high beams when you drive in rural areas or on open roads. However, you should immediately dim your high beams if you come within 500 feet of another vehicle.
5. Get Your Car Inspected Regularly
Take your car to a certified auto mechanic who can inspect your vehicle’s headlights, brakes, and other mechanical components. The mechanic can identify any mechanical issues with your car, so that you are well-equipped to drive safely at all times.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Car Accident at Night
A nighttime car accident can be stressful, but you should treat the incident in the same way you would if it occurred during the day.
If you’re involved in a nighttime car accident, move your vehicle at least 100 feet away from the incident to a safe spot on the side of the road. Turn on your car’s emergency flashers and check for injuries. You should also call 911, report the accident to the police, and offer support to anyone who was injured.
Following a nighttime car accident, you can take your vehicle to a certified auto mechanic to get any damaged mechanical components repaired or replaced. Take your car to a certified auto body shop if any damage occurred to your vehicle’s bumper or other exterior components. That way, you can ensure your car is safe to drive both during the day and at night once again.
Fix Auto employs certified auto body technicians who can repair any dents, dings, or other damage to your car following a nighttime accident. If you need auto body repairs and would like to schedule a service appointment with us, please contact us online or call us at 800.INFO.FIX.
This blog post was contributed by Fix Auto San Clemente, a leading industry expert and collision repair shop servicing San Clemente.
