Nighttime Driving Hazards
Although there are fewer drivers on the road, a significant percentage of car accidents nationwide occur at night. Certain hazards are inherent to nighttime driving, including:
As the sun sets, our pupils adjust to the lighting difference by dilating. Lights on the roadway, headlights and console lights cause irregular lighting situations, so your pupils must constantly adjust.
Driving at night also means a greater number of intoxicated motorists are on the road. The majority of DUI auto accidents, including alcohol and drug-related accidents, occur in the late-night or early-morning hours, between midnight and 3 a.m. Some drivers – who work night shifts, for example – cannot avoid driving at night, and are left vulnerable to sharing the road with drunk drivers.
Consequences of Nighttime Driving Accidents
To prevent nighttime driving accidents, you should avoid driving late at night when possible. You can also lower the lights on your car’s console to prevent vision changes and allow you to see the road more clearly. You should also remain vigilant while driving at night, and look for drivers displaying erratic behavior. These drivers may be intoxicated.
Unfortunately, some careless drivers will not take these steps to make nighttime driving safe for everyone. Negligent drivers put other people on the roadway at risk for:
Even with the unique demands presented by driving at night, drivers still have a responsibility to drive safely. Negligent drivers who shirk these responsibilities may cause severe damage, and such drivers should be accountable for their actions.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Orlando, Florida or the surrounding areas, please contact experienced Florida auto accident attorney Michael V. Barszcz, M.D., J.D., for a free consultation.
