More people are killed or wounded in traffic accidents at night than during the day. Many drivers, however, are either utterly unaware of the unique dangers of night driving or are unable to cope with them effectively.

What is it about night driving that is so dangerous? In a word, darkness. Eyesight is significantly hampered at night and is required for a driver to respond quickly to events on the road. Several aspects of vision are impaired once the sun goes down, including depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision.

Leverage these tips to reduce the risks associated with driving after dark.

1. Turn on the Lights

Never forget to switch on your headlights, even if it is just beginning to get dark. While headlights will not improve your visibility in the early dusk, they will make it easier for other vehicles to notice you. Being seen by other drivers is vital, especially when you are changing lanes or making a turn.

2. Maintain a Safe Distance

It is difficult to gauge the speeds and distances of other vehicles in the dark. If you have a propensity to follow other drivers closely, you'll want to lessen your speed to increase the space between you and the car in front of you to avoid rear-ending them. Also, keep your headlights on low beams when following another vehicle so that you don't impair their vision.

3. Avoid Consuming Alcohol

While the drinking limit varies by state, avoid drinking any alcohol if you will operate a motor vehicle. Not only can alcohol impair your driving skills to a significant degree, but it also has a depressive effect. Even a single alcoholic beverage may slow your reaction time and make you tired.

4. Take a Break and Relax

When driving for long periods in the dark, take regular breaks for small refreshments and physical activity. If you're feeling too exhausted to drive, pull over and rest.

5. Take Precautions

If you are experiencing automotive trouble, pull over as far as you possibly can. Set up reflective triangles around your car and several feet behind it to warn oncoming vehicles as soon as possible. Turn on the flashers and the dome light if necessary. Remove yourself from the traffic and transport individuals away from the location.

A basic driver improvement course is an excellent way to ensure that you take the best steps for your driving safety. It can teach you how to be more aware on the road, which will help you avoid becoming involved in a crash. Taking a driver safety course may also make you eligible for savings on insurance premiums. Contact a transportation service to learn more about basic driver improvement courses.