Driving at night presents unique challenges, including reduced visibility, glare from headlights, and an increased risk of accidents. Proper preparation and safe driving habits can help you stay alert and navigate dark roads with confidence.

1. Use Your Headlights Correctly

Headlights improve visibility for both you and other drivers. Turn them on at least 30 minutes before sunset and keep them on until 30 minutes after sunrise. Use low beams in well-lit areas and high beams on dark roads without oncoming traffic. Avoid using high beams in fog, as they reflect off moisture and reduce visibility.

2. Keep Your Windshield and Mirrors Clean

Dirt, streaks, and smudges on your windshield or mirrors can cause glare and reduce visibility. Clean them regularly with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Inside the car, avoid touching the windshield with oily hands, as smudges can create blinding reflections from streetlights and headlights.

3. Adjust Your Mirrors to Reduce Glare

Glare from headlights behind you can be distracting. Adjust your rearview mirror to night mode if your car has an auto-dimming function or a manual tilt feature. Properly set side mirrors to reduce reflections and minimize blind spots.

4. Slow Down and Increase Following Distance

Depth perception and reaction times are reduced at night. Lower your speed and increase your following distance to at least four seconds to allow more time to react to sudden stops or obstacles. Be extra cautious in poorly lit areas where pedestrians or animals may be crossing.

5. Use Your Peripheral Vision and Scan the Road Ahead

Instead of focusing only on the center of the road, scan ahead and use your peripheral vision to detect movement. Look toward the right side of the road to avoid being blinded by oncoming headlights. Stay alert for cyclists, pedestrians, or wildlife near the edges of the road.

6. Avoid Looking Directly at Oncoming Headlights

Bright headlights can cause temporary blindness. If an oncoming car’s headlights are too bright, look slightly to the right and follow the white line on the road’s edge to stay in your lane. Blink frequently to reduce the impact of glare.

7. Keep Your Headlights Properly Aligned

Misaligned headlights can either reduce your visibility or blind other drivers. If you notice that one headlight seems dimmer or uneven, have them adjusted by a professional. Check that your headlights are clean and free of foggy buildup for maximum brightness.

8. Reduce Interior Lighting for Better Night Vision

Bright dashboard lights and infotainment screens can interfere with your night vision. Dim the instrument panel to a comfortable level and use night mode on your GPS or infotainment screen. Avoid using your phone while driving, as the sudden brightness can make it harder to adjust to darkness.

9. Take Breaks and Watch for Signs of Fatigue

Driving at night increases fatigue, reducing reaction times and concentration. If you feel drowsy:

• Stop at a safe rest area and take a short break.
• Drink water or caffeine to stay alert.
• Open the window for fresh air to help you stay awake.

If you are too tired, avoid driving altogether and find a safe place to rest.

10. Watch for Animals on the Road

Wildlife, especially deer, are more active at night. Be extra cautious when driving through rural or wooded areas. If you see an animal ahead, slow down and avoid swerving, as this can cause a loss of control. Use your horn and flash your headlights to alert animals of your presence.

Final Thoughts

Driving at night requires extra caution and preparation. By keeping your headlights clean and aligned, reducing glare, maintaining a safe speed, and staying alert, you can improve visibility and drive safely in the dark. Always prioritize rest and take breaks if needed to avoid fatigue-related accidents.