Daylight savings time ends next weekend, on Sunday, November 4th at 2:00 a.m. As much as I am looking forward to an extra hour of sleep, I am also dreading the fact that I will barely see the sun for the next few months. Needless to say, driving in the dark is not one of my favorite things to do, especially considering that Wisconsin is one of the top 10 states with the highest chances of a deer collision.
After doing a little research, I’ve compiled these safety tips for night driving that will ease my worries about driving in the dark:
- Keep headlights, tail lights, signal lights, and windows clean and in working order. It is important that your headlights are properly aimed and allow you as much visibility as possible.
- Drive more slowly than you usually do and increase your following distances. You should be able to stop within the parameters of the area your headlights reach—don’t overdrive your headlights!
- When following another vehicle, use your low beams so you don’t blind or distract the driver ahead of you. If an oncoming car keeps their high beams on, watch the right edge of the road and use that as a steering guide to avoid glare.
- Stop frequently for snacks, light exercise, or just to rest your eyes. Never drive if you think you are too tired; it is always better to stop and get rest instead of pushing yourself and potentially getting in an accident.
- This is probably common sense, but never drink and drive, especially at night. Alcohol impairs your driving ability and is also a depressant, meaning that as little as one drink can induce fatigue.
These nighttime driving tips helped me feel more at ease for driving in the dark and hopefully they do the same for you. If you still feel uncomfortable about driving at night, ask a friend to drive you or try to do all of your driving in the daylight. Stay safe and enjoy your extra hour of sleep on November 4th!
-Sam