Driving at night comes with increased risks due to reduced visibility and potential fatigue. Here are simple, practical ways to boost your car’s safety after dark:
1. Improve Visibility
✔ Clean headlights, mirrors & windows – Dirt and grime scatter light, reducing brightness.
✔ Replace old headlight bulbs – Upgrade to brighter, whiter LEDs if legal in your area.
✔ Adjust headlight alignment – Misaligned beams blind others or limit your view.
✔ Use fog lights (if needed) – Helps in heavy rain or fog, but don’t overuse them.
2. Enhance Your Car’s Defenses
✔ Check brake lights & turn signals – Ensure they work so others see your intentions.
✔ Add reflective tape – Apply to bumpers or wheels for better side visibility.
✔ Install blind-spot mirrors – Helps with lane changes in low light.
✔ Keep windshield washer fluid topped up – Prevents streaks from bugs or dirt.
3. Smart Driving Habits
✔ Reduce speed – Reaction time slows in the dark; drive below the limit if needed.
✔ Increase following distance – Gives more time to react to sudden stops.
✔ Avoid staring at oncoming headlights – Glance slightly right to prevent glare blindness.
✔ Take breaks if drowsy – Fatigue is a major night-driving hazard.
4. Emergency Prep
✔ Carry a safety kit – Flashlight, flares, jumper cables, and a reflective vest.
✔ Keep phone charged – For navigation or emergencies (use hands-free only!).
✔ Know your route – Unfamiliar roads are riskier at night; check maps beforehand.
5. Tech & Gadgets for Extra Safety
✔ Dashcam (night-vision capable) – Records incidents and improves accountability.
✔ Automatic high beams – Adjusts brightness to avoid blinding others.
✔ Parking sensors/rear camera – Helps with low-light reversing.