As a resident of Connecticut, you know that it is sometimes impossible to avoid having to drive at night. So what do you do in those situations where night driving can’t be avoided? Being prepared for the most dangerous scenarios is a good place to start.
When you’re dealing with night driving, there are a few common issues you’re going to run into no matter where you are on the road. This includes poor visual conditions, other drivers and their behaviors, and your own driving capabilities. As the National Safety Council says, many of the problems that come from night driving are unavoidable and are simply a result of the time of day. Elevated issues include:
Poor visibility
Limited sight range
Driver fatigue
DUI-related incidents
Reckless driving behaviors
Poor visibility and limited sight range are related to the darkness. You’re unable to see very far ahead of you, limiting your reaction time. The headlights of oncoming cars can temporarily blind you. Depending on your eye health, you may also have more trouble seeing than others in the dark. These are all factors that can’t really be altered.
Other drivers also pose a danger, as driving fatigue and DUI-related mishaps happen most often between the hours of midnight and 6am. Driving at night naturally goes against the circadian rhythm, leading to exhaustion. Parties also happen at night, leading to increased chance of other drivers being intoxicated.
Finally, because the roads are often emptier at night, people are more likely to engage in reckless driving behavior because they don’t feel watched. When combined, these factors make for a dangerous combination. Staying on your toes is of crucial importance if you do need to drive after dark.
