TIPS FOR DRIVING SAFELY IN THE DARK
With the darker nights approaching, the most difficult time of year to be driving has begun. Statistics from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents reveal that 40% of all collisions occur in the darkness. With that being said, the private number plate supplier click4reg wanted to give their expert tips on how to prepare to drive safely in the dark.
LIGHTS
The experts at click4reg advise making regular checks to ensure your front and rear lights are functioning as not only is it illegal to drive without functioning lights, but extremely dangerous to drive without properly working lights.
It is important for drivers to use their lights appropriately; dipped headlights should be turned on an hour before sunset and kept on till an hour after sunrise to ensure you’re always vividly visible to other drivers.
Using your full beam correctly is another important factor, as the blinding effect of oncoming full-beam headlights is dazzling and can cause accidents. You should only utilise your full beam on unlit country roads to help you see the road layout clearly, but when you see another vehicle, you must switch back to dipped beam lights straight away.
Extra tip: Invest in some night driving glasses to reduce the effect of nighttime glare.
DROWSY DRIVING
Car accidents linked to driver fatigue are a major cause of road accidents. Making sure you are fully awake and coherent is vital as driving in the dark makes you feel more bleary eyed than usual, especially if you’re on a long journey.
The experts advise scheduling regular rest stops if you are driving longer than an hour. If your journey is short, take a snack or a drink which will keep you awake. Only go behind the wheel when you feel fully awake, as not only does feeling sleepy make you a danger to yourself and other drivers, but it can be just as dangerous as someone drink-driving.
Extra tip: Stay hydrated before and during driving long distances, it will keep you focused and alert.
WINDOWS AND MIRRORS
Checking the state of your car and ensuring it’s clean is essential before driving at night. As a buildup of
DECEMBER 2021
condensation can form on your inside windows, as well as dirt picking up on the outside, it’s important to take time to clean them before setting off on your journey in the dark.
Mirrors are just as important to keep clean, as dirty mirrors can compromise your vision when driving, especially at night.
Extra tip: Avoid touching your windows and mirrors and if you do, wipe it down with microfibre cloth.
ONCOMING TRAFFIC
To prevent and protect yourself from being dazzled behind the wheel, it is important to never look directly at other cars’ headlights as the glare you’ll face back can temporarily blur your vision, making it more likely for you to lose control of the wheel.
Extra tip: If the glare is affecting your vision, slow down but avoid abruptly halting as to not cause an accident between you and the car behind.
BREAKDOWN PLAN
Car troubles are frustrating for anyone but experiencing a breakdown at night can be really dangerous as it is more difficult for approaching traffic to see you and your vehicle. Ensure your hazards are on, which will make you seen and alert other drivers, disembark your vehicle and stand behind safety barriers or a safe distance away and always carry a high vis jacket or vest!
Extra tip: In the unfortunate event of a breakdown at night, make your call to your breakdown recovery service first, to ensure you aren’t waiting longer, and then phone your respective partners, family and friends.
Data commissioned by:
https://www.click4reg.co.uk/ 89
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