Even though many people hit the road during nighttime hours, driving at night can be significantly more dangerous than driving during the day. Low visibility, fatigue, impaired drivers, and many other risks are especially pronounced at night, making the roads much more treacherous.
If you plan on heading out onto the road, stick to daytime hours to avoid an accident. If you do need to go out at night, be extremely cautious and remain aware of other drivers on the road. These steps can potentially save your life. In the unfortunate event that you do get into an accident, make sure you have a car accident lawyer on your side to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
Why Is Driving at Night More Dangerous?
After the sun sets, the road can become a very hazardous place. According to the National Safety Council, half of all traffic deaths happen in the evening hours. Nighttime driving poses significant and unique risks to motorists, such as the following:
- Low Visibility: Driving at night is especially dangerous due to low visibility and increased glare. As the sun sets, the road can become very dark and any streetlamps, headlights, and other light sources can seem more intense than before. It can be difficult to see pedestrians, animals, and other drivers, and the glare can cause eye strain and even temporary blindness.
- Intoxicated Drivers: Drunk and high drivers are more likely to be on the road at night during the day. Alcohol and drugs can impair many of the skills that are critical to driving safely, such as concentration, fine motor skills, judgment, and vision.
- Drowsy Driving: Driving at night can be more dangerous due to sleepy and fatigued drivers. When it is dark, there are more likely to be drowsy drivers on the road who can fail to concentrate or stay awake at the wheel, leading to an accident.
- Reckless Driving: Drivers can also be more reckless at night than they can be during the day. The roads are less busy, and the perceived isolation can make drivers feel like they can go faster or make reckless mistakes. These actions can lead to serious accidents.
Safety Tips for Driving at Night
To reduce your risk of an accident, it is best to avoid driving at night. However, nighttime driving is sometimes necessary. If you find yourself on the road in the dark, keep the following tips in mind to stay safe and protect your passengers:
- Never drive while drowsy or fatigued. To stay alert, grab some coffee or pull over in a safe area to get some rest.
- Before heading out on the road, clean your windshields and headlights. These steps can help improve your visibility.
- Be more defensive than you usually are while driving. Keep a careful eye on surrounding drivers and be prepared to act in case of an emergency. If you suspect any impaired drivers, pull over and call 911.
- Drive slowly and keep enough space between your vehicle and other cars. Speeding-related crashes are often more common at night, especially when you have lower visibility and shorter reaction times.
Injured in a Car Accident? Speak to an Attorney
While extra care and vigilance can help reduce the risk of an accident, negligent drivers are everywhere. If you are injured in a nighttime driving accident, you have the right to hold the at-fault motorist accountable and recover compensation for the injuries that you suffered. To learn more about your legal options and take your first steps toward recovery, contact a Texas car accident lawyer for a free case consultation.
