As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, Indiana residents must adjust to driving during autumn once again.
Driving after dark presents special challenges, as motorists can fail to recognize color changes and struggle with their depth perception and peripheral vision. When the headlights of oncoming cars hit them in the eyes, it can even temporarily blind them.
Many drivers think the solution to driving after dark is to use their high beams. But even then, you only get about double the distance, or 500 feet, of visibility. Depending on your rate of speed, that may not be sufficient to react to a hazard ahead of you in the road.
Below are some tips that may help you avoid an accident after dark:
- Make sure your headlights are clean and correctly aimed
- Keep your windshield clean and streak-free
- Look off to the side when a car approaches with its brights on
- Dim the lights on your car’s dashboard
- Wear anti-reflective glasses
- Reduce speed
Older drivers may notice that they struggle to see when driving at night. That can indicate that their night vision is compromised and they are no longer capable of driving safely after dark. If such is the case, it’s vital to do the responsible thing and self-limit your driving to daylight hours only.
If you get injured in an accident with an at-fault driver, you will need to file a claim for damages in order to hold them liable for your injuries, losses and other damages. If their insurance company balks at paying out the claim, your personal injury attorney will need to file suit to allow you to recover financial compensation.