Now that summer is officially over, the days are about to get shorter, which means we will be spending more time driving when it’s dark outside. But the truth is that driving at night is significantly more dangerous than driving during daylight.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), deadly car accidents are three times more likely to occur during the nighttime in comparison to during the day. In a 2019 report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the deadliest time to drive is between 6 PM and 9 PM., while most fatal crashes occur on weekends.
The following are some common reasons why driving at night is dangerous:
Poor visibility – When you drive in the dark, it is more difficult to see a great distance ahead of you, which could prevent you from anticipating hazardous conditions on the road. To avoid an accident, ensure your windshields are clean and clear, reduce your speed to give yourself more time to react to unexpected road conditions, and avoid distractions to give your full attention to driving.
Intoxicated drivers – According to NHTSA, the rate of deadly accidents involving alcohol intoxication is nearly four times higher during the evenings than during the daytime. Impaired motorists are most likely to be driving at night, specifically between midnight and 3 AM on weekends. Always keep an eye out for other drivers’ behaviors on the road and drive defensively.
Fatigued drivers – After a long day of work, it is not uncommon to feel drained or tired while driving home. However, drowsy driving at night can most likely result in falling asleep behind the wheel and, worse, a serious crash. If you find yourself feeling more tired while driving at night, ensure you get at least seven hours of sleep each night and avoid driving if you’ve been awake for at least 16 hours. Whenever you feel drowsy while driving, pull over to a rest stop or motel and take a nap.
Rush hour – Rush hour traffic can be brutal. Unfortunately, it is worse when it is dark outside. Heavy traffic can lead to crashes, so combined with the added risk of driving at night, this time can be extremely dangerous for drivers returning home after work. Avoid tailgating, be patient, drive slowly, and pay attention to your surroundings when you are experiencing rush hour traffic during the nighttime.
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, call Pierce, Sloan, Kennedy & Early LLC at (843) 968-0886 or complete our online contact form today to request a free initial consultation. Serving Charleston and the surrounding area since 1999!