Night driving always entails an added difficulty: having to drive in poorer light and visibility conditions, driving reflexes and responsiveness are always impaired compared to the same faculties during the day.
Deficient lighting systems
Other data showing the danger of driving at night in conditions of low visibility or poor use of the vehicle's lighting system is provided by a study by Osram, a manufacturer of automotive lighting. According to its figures, the rate of fatal accidents per kilometer of road is up to four times higher when driving at night.
One of the factors that negatively affects road safety at night is the poor condition of the car's lighting system, which plays a vital role in the circulation during these hours of the day. Figures provided by the Ministry of Industry show that 6.1 million minor defects and 1.8 million serious faults have been detected in the ITV stations.
In addition to mechanical failures, drivers' physical and psychological conditions worsen considerably at night. Fatigue, tiredness and even nervousness due to driving during an unfavorable time of the day are risks that accompany night driving and that can be mitigated by adopting some simple measures, as Juan Ignacio Serena, head of the Road Safety Training section of the DGT, explains. Adjusting speed and resting properly, as well as scheduling stops along the trip are some tips.
DGT tips for driving at night
To drive and circulate safely between dusk and dawn, the DGT compiles tips that can be applied to reduce the chances of suffering a serious traffic accident at night.
- Check that the car lighting is working properly and that there are no burned out lights. It is important that the windows are clean.
- It is essential toproperly adjust the exterior and interior mirrors.
- Make sure that the height of the headlights is properly adjusted to provide good visibility and avoid disturbing other drivers. Likewise, be respectful with the use of high beams and fog lights.
- Dipped headlights should be turned on at least one hour before sunset.
- Have your eyes checked at least once a year.
- Adapt the speed to the lighting conditions of the road and increase the safety distance with the vehicle in front to have more reaction time in case of unexpected events.
- It is better to travel rested and schedule breaks every hour or hour and a half.
- Increase the frequency of monitoring the mirrors, ventilate the passenger compartment and try to listen to music that does not distract you from driving: this will prevent drowsiness.
- If we suffer from tearing, eye fatigue, drowsiness, itchy eyes... it is advisable to find a safe place, stop the car and rest before continuing.
- A clean rear window and windshield provide better visibility day and night and avoid annoying reflections.
- If possible, drive on well-lit and well-maintained roads for nighttime travel.
- Always carry hazard warning triangles or V-16 signals in case of breakdown and reflective vests.
Source: 20 minutos