Learn how you can safely navigate the roads after darkness falls.
During fall, Texas drivers will lose approximately one to two hours of daylight daily. While this might not seem like a significant change, this could be the difference between a fully lighted commute home and a commute that takes place after sunset. If your daily commutes are now taking place after dark, then it’s important that you take extra safety precautions to get home safely. Here are some of the steps that you should take to safely navigate the roads after darkness falls.
- Keep Your Windshield Clean
When you drive at night, the glare from street lamps and other drivers’ headlights can cast a glare on your windshield. If your windshield is streaky and dirty, then this will amplify the effects of the glare, making it more difficult for you to see. To improve your night-time visibility, make sure that your car’s windshield is wiped clean before you get behind the wheel.
- Adjust Your Mirrors
In a similar vein, the glare from other drivers’ lights can also make it difficult to see out of your rearview and side mirrors. This is why you need to adjust them, so you aren’t directly reflecting the light from other driver’s headlights. If you have a manually adjustable rearview mirror, then flip the tab at the bottom of your mirror. This changes the angle of the mirror and allows you to see behind you without being blinded.
- Limit Distractions
Driving at night means that your visibility will be compromised. This means that you need to be extra vigilant as you navigate through the streets. While you should never participate in activities that distract you from driving, it’s especially important to avoid distractions when driving at night. So, make sure you avoid using your phone, fiddling with the radio, eating, drinking, and so on when you are driving after dark.
- Avoid Drowsy Driving
Driving while drowsy is almost as dangerous as driving while under the influence of alcohol. Unfortunately, our bodies are hardwired to sleep at night. This means that many of us start to feel drowsy and more relaxed as soon as it gets dark outside. If you have to drive at night, make sure you take precautions to stay alert. For instance, drinking a caffeinated beverage before your drive and listening to high-energy music during your commute can help you stay awake. If you ever find yourself falling asleep behind the wheel, then pull over and rest. This is the best way to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
These are some of the suggestions you should try to safely navigate the roads after darkness falls. Want another way to stay safe as you drive? Then make sure you have the right auto insurance protections in place. For assistance with all your personal coverage needs, contact the team at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency. Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.