Common night driving risks

Common night driving risks Even the most conscientious motorist can have significant difficulties driving in nighttime conditions. Not only does the lack of sunlight reduce motorists' ability to see, but the darkness can affect a variety of other details as well. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and esurance, Motorists are 3 times more likely to be fatally injured while driving at night. Although only 25% of all driving is done during nighttime hours, more than 50% of all driving fatalities occur at night. 25% 50% Motorists who are driving at night should be aware of the following night driving risks: REDUCED VISIBILITY When the sun goes down, it can be difficult for motorists to see what is going on in their driving environment. Low-light conditions reduce depth perception, peripheral vision and the ability to distinguish between different colors. Drivers should allow extra time for passing vehicles and keep a further distance behind the vehicle in front of them during night-time. According to the NHTSA, the headlights designed to help In some cases, motorists may miscalculate how far away a vehicle is and unintentionally pull drivers see in the dark can actually create a visual distraction to other passing vehicles. out in front of it. FATIGUE 2 After a long and stressful day at work or school, it isn't uncommon for people to feel weary and tired. According to the Texas Transportation Institute, teens are especially vulnerable when they are tired, as they also lack the experience that many older drivers have. The National Sleep Foundation reported that while the average teenager should receive at least nine hours of nightly sleep, many of them only get seven hours. This may be one of the reasons why nighttime driving is listed as the number one fatality risk for teens in America. DISTRACTED AND DRUNK DRIVING 3 Whether driving during the day or at night, motorists must be fully focused on their driving environment and avoid all driver distractions. People who engage in the dangerous activity of texting or talking on a cellphone while driving at night, are in even greater danger of causing an accident. According to the NHTSA, more drunk drivers take to the streets in the evening and nighttime hours, which can increase the risk of a collision. 4 SPEED According to National Institutes of Health, with a reduced number of vehicles on the road, motorists are apt to travel at faster speeds during the night than they would during the day, increasing the chances of motor vehicle accidents, injuries and deaths. People who have been injured or have lost a loved one in a car accident may find it helpful to consult with a car accident attorney in Las Vegas. Office location: 623 S. 8th Street, Phone: 702-646-0085 ROBERT M. APPLE & ASSOCIATES Las Vegas, NV 89101-7004 O Website:www.applelawoffices.com E Blog: http://applelawoffices.com/common- night-driving-risks/ infographic by Market JD www.marketjd.com