Tips for safer nighttime driving

Adapting to nighttime driving is key to maintaining road safety.

The end of daylight saving time brings an increase in nighttime driving, which raises the risk of accidents. There is an increase in fatal accidents as darkness falls due to poor visibility, so the loss of an hour of daylight in the fall can affect road safety.

With the added darkness during commute times, it is important to adjust driving habits. Visibility decreases, and factors such as headlight glare and interior lighting worsen the situation. Modern vehicles, with LED and laser headlights, increase glare, which especially affects older individuals or those with vision problems, such as nearsightedness, astigmatism, or glaucoma. Adapting to nighttime driving is key to maintaining safety.

Tips for safer nighttime driving

Keep the windshield and headlights clean

Glare increases when the windshield is dirty because dirt scatters light. To improve visibility, it’s crucial to keep it clean, cleaning it at least once a week, according to AAA. Additionally, ensuring that headlights are free from dirt and debris, especially in dusty areas or places with many insects, also helps reduce glare and improves safety while driving.

Use high beams only when necessary

The National Safety Council recommends using high beams on long, wide stretches of road or rural highways near fields and forests, where lighting is limited. However, they should be avoided in foggy or rainy conditions, as the reflection can reduce visibility for other drivers. Additionally, in areas with heavy traffic, it’s essential to lower the beams to avoid blinding other drivers and ensure road safety.

Headlight alignment

Vehicle wear and tear can lead to improper headlight alignment, so it’s recommended to visit a mechanic to ensure they are properly oriented. Since U.S. laws do not require manufacturers to check alignment, this can cause dangerous glare for other nighttime drivers and reduce your own visibility while driving.

Reduce interior vehicle lights

When driving at night, it’s important that all interior lights in the vehicle, except for dashboard lights, are turned off or dimmed as needed. This is because the eyes need to adjust to night vision, which is hindered by the presence of interior lights. Additionally, these lights can increase distractions and create reflections on the windshield, reducing visibility.

Glasses to improve visibility

Night driving glasses with yellow lenses can help reduce glare; however, it is important to consult with your eye doctor to determine if they are the best option for you. Additionally, keeping your glasses clean is essential to avoid any discomfort and ensure a more comfortable drive at night.