According to a study by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), nearly a third (31%) of UK drivers feel uncomfortable driving at night. The same study reveals that 40% of all road accidents occur during darkness.
Night driving can feel like a whole different ball game. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and the glare of headlights make cruising down the road after dark a bit nerve-wracking. But mastering these challenges can bring a sense of empowerment. While many people enjoy driving at night, many fear it because of the uncertainties that might come with it, too.
When the sun sets, Huddersfield’s familiar streets transform into a whole new world. The warm glow of shop windows gives way to the stark illumination of headlights, and the rolling hills of the Pennines become shrouded in shadow. But fear not, with a few key tips, you can confidently navigate this new world and keep yourself and others safe.
Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to prepare yourself and your car for the adventure of night driving. This means ensuring you are mentally and physically ready, and that your car is in optimal condition. By taking these steps, you can approach night driving with confidence.
Hope you’ve got your driver’s license.
Tips For Safe Driving At Night
- Drive defensive.
Stay defensive on the road while driving around other vehicles. We do not mean driving with a shield, though. To stay defensive at night while driving, here’s what you do;- Increase your distance between cars. This will prevent any other driver from hitting you or even getting your car scratched. It could also prevent distractions, as any unforeseen action could shake your focus off the road.
- Maintain a speed limit that is allowed on the road. Accidents have occurred because of over speeding. If you need to slow down, drive in the slow driver’s lane to avoid causing confusion on the road. Remember that while trying to protect yourself, you shouldn’t be the cause of other drivers’ misfortune. Drive with caution.
- Watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, road workers and wildlife.
- Adjust your car’s interior lighting.
If your internal dashboard lights are too bright, you might want to dim them a bit. Looking at your bright dashboard and up at the road might be disorienting. Your dashboard should be readable but not distracting. - Only use high beams when appropriate.
Always ensure headlights are on after dark and use high beams only when appropriate. Reduce your lights when approaching another vehicle or driving behind another. To avoid blurring and distorting your view, glance down towards the right and follow the white road markings to prevent visual impairment. - Always avoid distractions while driving, especially at night.
This is crucial for safe driving at night, as reduced visibility and the increased likelihood of encountering unexpected obstacles demand your full attention.
To minimise distractions, keep your phone out of reach and use hands-free devices only when necessary. Avoid eating, adjusting the radio, or engaging in conversations that take your focus away from the road. Staying focused and attentive allows you to better anticipate and react to potential hazards, ensuring a safer driving experience after dark. - Check your lights.
Check your vehicle’s turn signals, headlights, and brake lights regularly to ensure safe driving at all times of the day.
Drive safe at night. At Five Star Autocentre, ensure your car is properly checked and road-worthy. Contact our auto care specialists at Huddersfield and drive with confidence. Book an appointment.
