Though there is usually less traffic on roads at night, nearly more than half of the fatal car accidents occur after sunset. The key reason behind the fact is the dramatic difference that darkness make in driver's ability. At night it really becomes difficult for drivers to cope even with the most normal driving conditions.
Driving even become more challenging at twilight when eyes are changing to adapt to the growing darkness. So, extra care and caution should be taken while driving at night.
Here are the top 15 safety tips for night driving:
1.Prepare your car for night driving. Clean all the windows and lights including the headlights and taillights.
2.Ensure that all the exterior lightings of the car are working properly so that others can clearly see you.
3.Turn your headlights on before sunset so that others can have a clear vision of your car. This will also help you improve your visibility at night and have a safe drive.
4.High beam reduces visibility so don't ever throw high beams on other vehicle while driving at night.
5.Avoid any kind of glare during night as it greatly reduces your visibility and your perception as well. If there is enough of street lights, switch off the interior lighting of your car.
6.Also keep the windshield and windows clean as dust and frost may cause glare.
7.Driving above the speed limit is also hazardous at night because your perception reduces and you may not be able to judge the danger ahead. It actually reduces your response time and you may cause an accident.
8.night driving is more tiring than day driving. So, always take refreshment breaks in between especially if it is a long journey.
9.In case of long journeys, you can even swap drivers so that each of the car passenger can get time to relax.
10.Don't ever drink and drive because alcohol acts as a depressant that impairs your driving ability and also makes you feel drowsy.
11.Avoid smoking while you drive as nicotine and carbon monoxide hamper night vision.
12.Increase your following distance as this will help you have a better judgement of the speeds and distances of other vehicles sharing the road.
13.If there is an emergency breakdown, warn approaching traffic by switching on the emergency lights and pull off your car from the road.
14.At times you may see headlights of the car following car reflecting on your rear view mirror. This can hamper your vision so make sure that you adjust the mirror accordingly.
15.Drowsiness and fatigue can also contribute to impaired vision. So, don't drive more than 3 hours at a stretch.