The most dangerous time to drive is after dark.
• Depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision can be compromised
• Headlight glare can be temporarily blinding
• Limited visibility = less time to react 250 ft. = normal headlights 500 ft. = high beams
Combatting darkness: The NSC recommends reducing the risk of an accident related to driving at night by:
• Dimming your dashboard
• Looking away from oncoming lights
• Wearing anti-reflective glasses
• Keeping windshields clean and streak-free
• Slowing down to compensate for limited visibility and reduced stopping time
Winter darkness makes rush hour even more problematic. The NSC recommends:
- Being patient; slowing down
- Staying in your lane and steering clear of drivers who dart about from lane to lane
- Staying alert — even in familiar surroundings
- Minimizing distractions, such as touching cell phones or eating and drinking while driving
Reduced night vision Age impacts a person’s ability to see at night:
- A 50-year-old individual may need 2x as much light to see as a 30-year-old individual
- Vision may be compromised by cataracts or degenerative eye diseases
Combatting reduced night vision, The AOA recommends:
- Completing annual vision exams
- Reducing speed
- Taking a refresher driving course
- Minimizing distractions
- Knowing the side effects of prescription drugs
Be vigilant, be kind, and watch your speeds!
