Driving at night, it’s not only harder to see, but you often feel more tired. There’s also a higher number of drivers who aren’t fully alert. But don’t stress – learning a few safe night-driving tips can make your nighttime driving experience much less stressful.
Why Night Driving Can Be Hard
Let’s face it – night driving isn’t the same as driving in daylight. It’s not only harder to see what’s going on around you, but your vision, including your peripheral vision, is naturally limited in the dark, making it harder to spot road signs, pedestrians, and other vehicles. And then there’s the glare from oncoming headlights, which can be downright blinding.
On top of this, nighttime often brings on fatigue. Our bodies are naturally wired to wind down when it gets dark, which can make you feel drowsy behind the wheel. Drowsy driving is incredibly dangerous – it slows your reaction time and can lead to accidents just as easily as if you were drunk driving.
The risk of encountering drivers who might be tired, distracted, or under the influence is higher at night, especially on weekends. In fact, in South Africa, 58% of traffic fatalities occur during the night, with the likelihood of a fatal crash being four to five times higher after dark compared to daylight hours.
Simple Tips for Driving At Night
You should always practise defensive driving when heading out on the roads at night. Let’s look at some simple ways you can do this.
1. Slow Down
Remember, you don’t have to drive at the maximum speed limit. It’s really only a maximum for ideal conditions – and nighttime isn’t exactly ideal. Slow down to give yourself more time to spot and react to any unexpected situations, like an animal on the road or a sudden bend.
2. Turn Your Lights On
Use your brights on roads that are poorly lit to help you see further ahead, but don’t forget to dim them when you see other cars so you don’t blind them. Or, opt for alternative routes such as double-lane highways so you don’t face oncoming traffic.
Remember to make sure your headlights are clean and get into the habit of turning them on at dusk, even if it’s not completely dark yet – it helps other drivers see you better.
3. Be Alert and Stay Awake
If you’re feeling sleepy, that’s a red flag you shouldn’t ignore. Take regular breaks if you’re on a long drive, and if you’re starting to feel drowsy, pull over and rest. Don’t rely on coffee or energy drinks to keep you awake – they might help for a little while, but they’re no substitute for sleep.
4. Watch Out for Other Drivers
At nighttime, you’re much more likely to encounter drivers who are fatigued, struggling to see, or under the influence. Be extra cautious if you see someone driving erratically, such as swerving, speeding up and slowing down, or drifting between lanes. Keep your distance to give yourself time to react, and if necessary, report them to the police.
5. Make Use of Your Car’s Safety Features
Modern cars come with some great features that can make night driving easier. Anti-glare rearview mirrors, for example, can reduce the harsh glare from headlights behind you, and automatic headlights can help you ensure you’re always visible to others. Be sure to check that these features are in good working order before hitting the road.
6. Don’t Turn on Your Interior Lights
It might be tempting to turn on the inside lights to help you find something while driving, but those lights can actually make it harder to see outside. If you really need to use an interior light, pull over to a safe spot first.
Preparing Your Car for Night Driving
Before you even start your night drive, take a few minutes to make sure your car is ready. Let’s take a look at the most important things to check.
Tests the Lights
Give all your exterior lights a quick check – headlights, taillights, and signalling lights included. A burned-out bulb can make it very hard for other drivers to notice you, so be sure to replace any faulty bulbs right away.
Clear the View
A clean windshield and mirrors are essential for minimising glare and improving your visibility. Keep them spotless for the best view of the road.
Check Those Tyres
Make sure your tyres are properly inflated with decent tread depth, especially when it’s raining. This not only helps with steering but can also prevent accidents.
Inspect Your Brakes
Your brakes are your best defence against unexpected road hazards, especially at night when your reaction time is slower. Regularly check your brakes to make sure they’re up to the task.
Get Car Insurance for Peace of Mind
Staying alert, preparing your car, and driving at a speed that feels comfortable for you will greatly lower your risk of getting into an accident. But, unfortunately, incidents on the road can and do still happen.
That’s why car insurance is so important – it gives you peace of mind and financial protection if something goes wrong. If you don’t yet have car insurance, take a moment to explore your options and get a quote.
Enjoy Safer Journeys After Dark
Driving at night doesn’t have to be intimidating. With better preparation and awareness, you’ll not only feel more confident behind the wheel but also increase your safety and that of others on the road. Be sure to follow these simple, practical tips to make your night driving experience safer and more enjoyable.
Disclaimer
The article aims to provide South African motorists with information on how to drive more safely at night. However, it’s not a complete list, so always do your own independent research.
Get a quote for affordable Comprehensive car insurance with Prime South Africa for fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and top-tier service. T&Cs apply.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.
Please be Alert, Sober and Defensive on the Roads Tonight!! Advice for Safe Driving at Night https://t.co/IPJFGhKxIr #ArriveAlive #NightDriving@Dotransport @TrafficRTMC @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/9PIQSGR9PB
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) August 16, 2024
