Driving at night requires special attention and caution. In the dark, visibility is significantly reduced, and the risk of accidents increases.
According to a study by the European Road Safety Commission, about 40% of all road accidents occur at night, even though night traffic accounts for only 25% of total traffic. However, by following a few simple recommendations, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure safety on the road.
1. Check Your Vehicle’s Lighting
Before starting a night trip, make sure all the lights on your vehicle are working properly. Turn on the low and high beams, check the fog lights and parking lights. Research shows that faulty headlights or improper light adjustment can increase the risk of an accident by 30%. Proper lighting not only helps you see the road but also makes you visible to other drivers.
2. Reduce Speed
At night, the perception of distance and speed can be distorted. Therefore, it is important to reduce speed so that you have more time to react in case of a sudden obstacle. Keep an eye on road signs and adhere to the recommended speed limits. Don’t forget: check your headlights before the trip. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), reducing speed by 10% can decrease the likelihood of an accident by 19%.
3. Maintain a Safe Distance
When driving at night, increase the distance to the vehicle ahead. This will allow you to notice its braking or other maneuvers in time and avoid a collision. Studies show that increasing the distance by 50% reduces the risk of collision by 20%. Also, remember that braking distance can increase on wet or slippery roads.
4. Avoid Glare
If an oncoming vehicle blinds you with its headlights, try to focus on the right side of the road. Avoid looking directly at the light to prevent temporary blindness. Use your rearview mirror in anti-glare mode, if you have one, to reduce the reflection of light from vehicles behind you.
5. Use Navigation Systems and Driver Assistance
Modern vehicles are often equipped with driver assistance systems, such as night vision, adaptive headlights, or lane-keeping systems. Use these features to enhance safety. Research shows that such systems can reduce the likelihood of accidents by 25%. You can also set up navigation to warn you of sharp turns or changes in road conditions.
6. Don’t Neglect Rest
Driving at night requires more concentration than during the day and can quickly tire you out. If you feel tired or start yawning, it’s better to stop and rest. Statistics show that driver fatigue is the cause of 20% of all road accidents. Don’t try to reach your destination at any cost – it’s better to arrive later but safely.
7. Keep Windows and Mirrors Clean
Clean windows and mirrors are the key to good visibility. Wipe them down before your trip to remove dust, dirt, and insect marks that could impair your view. It’s especially important that the windshield is clean and free from fogging.
Important Statistics
| Parameter | Statistics/Research |
| Percentage of accidents occurring at night | 40% of all road accidents, despite night traffic making up only 25% of total traffic |
| Risk of an accident with faulty headlights or improper light adjustment | Increases by 30% |
| Impact of reducing speed on accident likelihood | Reducing speed by 10% decreases accident likelihood by 19% |
| Impact of increasing distance on collision risk | Increasing distance by 50% reduces collision risk by 20% |
| Effectiveness of driver assistance systems | Reduces the likelihood of accidents by 25% |
| Driver fatigue as a cause of accidents | Driver fatigue causes 20% of all road accidents |
Conclusion
Following these recommendations will not only increase your confidence when driving at night but also significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Night driving requires heightened attention and the use of modern technologies that make the trip safer. Remember that your safety and the safety of those around you are in your hands. Be vigilant, keep your vehicle in good condition, and never underestimate the importance of regular rest while on the road. May every journey you take be comfortable and safe!
