While it’s not an ideal driving situation, drivers will more than likely face the task of driving during evening hours. Here are a few things to be vigilant about when behind the wheel at night:
Other drivers
According to a study done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most fatal accidents occur between 2-3 a.m. This is a time, too, where many bars close their doors, potentially putting people on the road who may be intoxicated. Be vigilant of drivers traveling around you. Look for vehicles drifting into other lanes and/or abrupt swearing. If you are on the road and feel a driver near you is potentially intoxicated, know you can always pull over to a safe area and contact 9-1-1.
Being alert
You’ve been traveling all day, and there are only two more hours until you make it to grandma’s. However, if you are at all feeling sleepy behind the wheel, DO NOT continue to stay on the road. It’s not worth it. Pull over to the nearest, safe rest area, and rest until you are feeling alert. If that means taking it a step further and checking into a hotel for the evening, do so. Driving tired is a hazard to yourself, anyone in your vehicle, and everyone and anyone on the roads.
A note on lights
Low beam lights are a good thing to have on during the day, but they are an essential thing to have on during the evening and early morning hours. Be aware, too, that your high beam and low beam lights are working properly at all times. Know and adhere to the etiquette of using your high beams lights as well. Generally speaking, this means to not use high beam lights within 200 to 300 feet of a vehicle traveling in front of you or within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle. High beams lights can and will temporarily “blind” other drivers, potentially putting them and yourself in harm’s way.