When you're just learning to drive, getting the keys in your hand and heading out on the open road feels like the ultimate freedom. Whether you passed your drive test yesterday or have been behind the wheel for more than a decade, difficult driving conditions can pose a safety threat to even the most cautious drivers. Plan ahead and prepare for any adverse driving conditions so that you're comfortable and confident every time you're out for a drive.
Night driving is one of the most common diving conditions, and particularly when the days are shorter during winter you may find yourself driving in the dark both in the morning and evening commute. Even when the road conditions are the same as driving in daylight, when the sun goes down it can be difficult to see and there are several factors that make things harder for drivers after dark.
If you're a new driver, speak to an experienced driver such as a parent or family friend and ask them how they feel driving at night is different and how they make sure they're safe when they're on the road. Doing this will help you know what to expect before you're even in the car and can help you be on the lookout for anything that might cause you trouble.
While you're learning, take another experienced driver with you to help you feel secure as you're testing the roads during the evening. While busy roads and motorways will be well lit, if you're on any smaller side roads or driving through the country, you'll find that it can be very difficult to see, and the only light in front of you is that of your headlights.
Another common difficulty drivers have is the glare from oncoming traffic or lights flashing in your rear-view mirror. When you're alone on the road, give yourself the best possible view by using your high beam headlights, but make sure to turn them off as soon as you can see another car in the distance, as these lights are nearly blinding. If a driver behind you is making it difficult to see clearly through your mirrors, adjust the settings so that the mirror appears darker and absorbs some of the light from the headlights.
Take extra care during night driving and slow down. Particularly when you're in a hurry, it can be tempting to drive quickly to help make up for lost time, but when night falls your eyes are already struggling to see as well as they do during daylight, and there's a possibility that you might miss something even if you're being careful. Allow for this possibility by slowing down and keeping a safe distance from other cars on the road.
Being diligent about night driving is just as important to your safety on the roads as car insurance, and each will help keep you safe if and when the unexpected strikes. Adjust your driving for different conditions, and take some time to practice with someone you trust. That way, whenever you're behind the wheel, you can be confident in your abilities as a driver and feel safe on the roads.
The author of this article is a part of a digital blogging team who work with brands like Admiral. The content contained in this article is for information purposes only and should not be used to make any financial decisions.
