Driving at Night: 5 Tips to Stay Safe
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With the recent time change, it’s now dark in Louisville by 5:30 pm, and sunset will continue to get earlier until the Winter Solstice on December 21. If you suffer from Heliophobia (fear of the Sun) then this is the time of the year for you!
For everyone else, this means more driving at night, which is more dangerous because it’s harder to see. Even though there are fewer drivers at night, you are 3 times more likely to be in a fatal accident at night vs. daytime. To help keep everyone a little safer, we put together five tips to follow while driving at night.
1. USE YOUR HEADLIGHTS
Many newer vehicles have automatic headlights but don’t assume yours are working correctly. It’s a good idea to keep your lights on whenever driving, but be sure yours are on and working at least an hour before sunset. Also be sure your headlights are free of dirt or oxidation, and that they are properly aligned and pointing in the right direction. Don’t be that person who drives with your bright lights on while other cars are around.
2. CLEAN YOUR WINDSHIELD AND MIRRORS
Dirty windshields can cause a blinding glare at night. Be sure you have plenty of washer fluid and don’t forget to clean the inside of your windshield as well. Don’t forget to clean your side-view mirrors and make sure they are positioned correctly before starting your trip.
3. BE PREPARED
If you do find yourself temporarily “blinded” by oncoming headlights or a glare, be prepared. Let off the gas, use your sun visor, and focus on the right side of the road. Practice this when there are no other drivers around so you are ready when it happens.
4. DON’T BE DISTRACTED
Your focus should be 100% on driving, not replying to a text or Social Media alert. If you have to take a call, that’s one thing, but texting while driving is exponentially more dangerous. Studies show that texting while driving is 6X more likely to cause an accident than impaired driving.
5. DRIVE DEFENSIVELY
Assume that it if can go wrong it might. Other drivers, pedestrians, and even animals could have a hard time seeing you at night. Slow down and back off the car in front of you. Keep your eyes moving and be alert.
Do your part to keep everyone safe on our KY roads. An accident can mean high doctor bills, lost work, property damage to your car, and much more. If someone else was at fault, why should you have to pay the price? The fact is, you probably shouldn’t. That’s why hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is a smart decision.
Hessig & Pohl’s injury lawyers offer the Fee Free Guarantee. Unless you win or settle your case, you do not pay a cent for their legal services. Let Hessig & Pohl’s legal team deal with the insurance company. You have nothing to lose and everything to win. Call Hessig & Pohl at (502)777-1111 or send us an email today.
by smbadmin | Dec 3, 2021 | Uncategorized