Night time driving is something all drivers will have to do but driving at night can pose risks.  In this post, we will let you know how to stay safe while driving at night.

Turn your headlights on

The Institute of Advance Motorists recommends turning your headlights on before sunset and keeping them on for an hour after sunrise so it’s easier for other drivers to see you in the twilight. Also, make sure your headlights are clean and in good condition.  Ensure your exterior lights are clean and working correctly and keep your interior lights turned off.

It’s always important to make sure you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear, this is especially crucial when driving after dark.

Stay awake

Most people’s bodies are accustomed to sleeping once the sky gets dark, so trying to avoid tiredness while driving at night is imperative. So make sure before driving at night, you have had plenty of sleep – because a tired driver can be a dangerous driver.

Clean your windscreen

Make sure your windscreen is clean because dirty windows increase the glare from other vehicles.

Take breaks

When driving long distances it is advisable to take regular breaks – this is even more imperative when driving overnight. Take a break every two hours and maybe drink a cup of coffee to keep yourself alert.

Coping with headlight glare

Headlight glare is another problem that comes with driving at night. In short; don’t look directly at the glare, keep your headlights clean and in good shape. For a more detailed list on how to cope with headlight glare, check out this post HERE.

Study the road ahead

Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists because after dark they can become more difficult to see especially if they are not wearing reflective clothing. Look out on the road for signs of oncoming drivers – glimmers of lights you see could be headlights of other vehicles.

Good eye health

Being able to see clearly is key to driving safely and this is even harder when driving at night. It is recommended to take an eye test every two years, and conditions such as glaucoma can affect your night vision.  If you wear glasses make sure your prescription is up to date. Also NEVER wear dark or tinted glasses while driving.