Tips for Driving During Night

Driving at night is the most dangerous time to drive, no matter what weather condition is present. The most dangerous time to drive on any roadway is between the hours of midnight and 6am, especially on the weekends. Luckily, there are some things you can do to improve your safety when driving at night.

Don't overdrive your headlights

Most speed limits are set for driving during the day in dry, clear conditions. Not for driving at night. Your headlights should illuminate the road ahead of you for approximately 4 seconds headway. If you have poor headlights or you aren't getting at least a 4 second headway, it's best to slow down.

Whenever possible, use your high beam headlights

When driving at night, make sure you utilize your high beam headlights (brights). High beams should be used as often as possible, especially during clear conditions. During adverse weather, use your best judgment. However, don't forget they are on! Be sure to dim your lights for oncoming traffic. The last thing you want to do is blind an oncoming driver, increasing the risk of a head-on collision. If an oncoming vehicle fails to dim their high beams, it's ok to flash your lights to try and remind them, but don't leave your high beams on in spite or to "get back" at the oncoming driver. Again, blinding the driver only increases the chance of a traffic accident. Don't forget to dim your lights for cross traffic and when you come up behind somebody as well!

Look away from the lights!

You should always use proper defensive driving techniques, including keeping your eyes moving, but make sure you don't stare directly at oncoming headlights. If you can safely do so, look towards the right shoulder as the vehicle approaches. Staring at the headlights will impair your night vision, even after the vehicle has passed. Just don't fixate on anything and keep looking ahead while driving.