Low visibility, evening rush hour, fatigue, and drunk drivers are only a few reasons why driving at night is dangerous. According to Forbes, the traffic fatality rate per mile traveled at night is three times higher than during the day.
If you regularly drive after sunset, these six tips can help you avoid accidents and injuries:
- Align your headlights;
- Dim instrument panel lights;
- Look for animals’ eyes;
- Avoid looking at oncoming lights;
- Clean your windshield and mirrors;
- And take eye exams regularly.
Unfortunately, not all drivers are responsible behind the wheel. If you were injured by a negligent motorist in Alabama, contact Morris Bart & Associates, LLC. A Mobile auto accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for health-care expenses, time off work, and other damages.
Here are six tips to help you avoid collisions at night:
Align Your Headlights
Many drivers are not aware that they need to align their headlights for optimum visibility. Popular Mechanics offers an online guide to help you complete this task without a mechanic.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Dim Your Instrument Panel Lights
Lights from your instrument panel and dashboard can be distracting and disrupt your night vision. Use the dimmer switch to reduce their brightness, and never drive with your main interior light on.
Look for Animals’ Eyes
If you are driving on rural roads, look out for the reflection of animals’ eyes. You will notice this reflection long before you see the animal, which will give you enough time to slow down or take evasive action.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
Avoid Looking at Oncoming Lights
Looking at bright, oncoming lights can break your concentration while driving at night. Your eyes will have adjusted to the dim light in the interior of your vehicle, and staring at bright headlights can cause them to readjust, which will hinder your vision. Move your mirror if a car behind you is driving with its high beams on.
Clean Your Windshield and Mirrors
Make sure your windshield and mirrors are clean. Dirty glass will reflect lights and reduce your visibility. Do not touch the windows with your bare hands because this will leave an oily residue, which can also cause a glare.
Take Eye Exams Regularly
If you are having trouble seeing at night, schedule an appointment with your optometrist. Wearing glasses may improve your vision at night and during the day. Even if your vision seems fine, you should visit your optometrist every three years if you are younger than 40, and at least every two years if you are between 40 and 60 years old. If you are older than 60, you should visit your optometrist annually.
If you were injured in a motor vehicle crash in Alabama, contact a Mobile injury attorney from Morris Bart & Associates, LLC. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
