Night driving can be dangerous. The chance of an accident is much higher due to limited visibility and driver fatigue.
Even if you are driving safely and concentrating on the road, there is still a much higher chance of you coming into contact with another driver who is under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
Here at Honda, we want everybody to be safe on the road, that’s why we’ve put together a list of tips for those having trouble driving at night.
Tips For Driving At Night
Make Sure Your Headlights Work
Making sure your headlights are in good working condition is a priority when driving at night. Grime and dirt can build up on the headlights so be sure to clean them often.
Clean windscreen & mirrors
Visibility is really important when driving at night. You need to be able to see all the possible dangers and hazards that can appear on the road.
Make sure your windscreen and side mirrors are clean of all dirt and grime to ensure full visibility. In particular make sure your windows are clean inside and out - smearing can cause distortion of other objects impairing your ability to perceive distance
Also remove obstacles to vision e.g. sunshades on glass, dry cleaning on hangers.
Adjust rear vision mirror
Make sure you adjust your rear vision mirror to “night” mode to minimise the dangers of driving at night. (you should do this only if the lights of the car behind are blinding)
Flicking the tab below the mirror will adjust the reflective surface so that it reduces glare coming from the car behind you. Making it less likely you’ll get blinded by their headlights.
Dim dashboard lights
Dimming the dashboard lights of your vehicle will remove any unwanted glare onto your windshield and allow you to focus on driving.
Avoid staring at lights
This one sounds a bit silly but it’s easier than you think to get caught out by lights from oncoming vehicles. Keep an eye out for high beams and avoid direct contact.
Temporary blindness can be incredibly dangerous in night driving situations so play it safe.
Lower Your Speed
It’s better to arrive late than never arrive at all. If you find yourself with anxiety driving at night, slow down.
Even lowering your speed by 5 km/h will make you feel a lot more comfortable and in control behind the wheel.
Watch out for driver fatigue
A big issue with night driving is driver fatigue. It’s common to encounter drivers who are experiencing fatigue behind the wheel from driving throughout the day into the night.
Remember if you’re ever feeling tired, do the right thing and pull over where it is safe to do so to have a quick power nap or stop for the night somewhere safe.
Honda Sensing
Performing safer driving has never been easier with Honda Sensing* technology. Using technology such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Low Speed Follow, you’ll be able to set your desired speed as well as distance to the vehicle in front of you. Effectively providing a simpler and safer drive.
To learn more about Honda Sensing technology and experience it in action, Find A Dealer today.
*Honda Sensing technologies are driver-assist technologies and should not be used in place of safe driving practices. Drivers should continue to monitor the road at all times. The accuracy and operation of Honda Sensing technologies may vary based on weather, speed, traffic, road conditions, markings and other factors.
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