Safer Night Driving

When the sun goes down, it’s harder to spot obstacles on the road and the likelihood of encountering a drunk or tired driver increases. It’s little surprise, then, that fatal car crashes are three times more likely to happen at night than during the day, according to the National Safety Council. Luckily, there are several night driving strategies that can help keep you safe.  Increase the distance between your car and the car in front of you. A three-second lead is suggested during the day; at night, you should double this number.  Use lights to your advantage. Turn on blinkers long before you need them and tap brakes as you slow down to alert drivers behind you.  Maintain your headlights. Change headlight bulbs when they are getting dim or have burnt out. Use low beams during fog, and keep headlights on from an hour before dusk to an hour after dawn.  Avoid glare. If a car with bright beams is blinding you, shift your gaze to the right side of the road until the car has passed.