Many people have difficulty seeing well in the dark. Combined with bright lights, reflections and other obstructions, driving at night can be very dangerous. Unsurprisingly, the passenger vehicle occupant fatality rate at night is about three times higher than during the day.
For more crash statistics and information on preventing accidents at night, speak with our award-winning Philadelphia car accident lawyers.
Glare is one of the primary hazards of driving at night, as it causes discomfort and reduces a driver’s ability to see and react. Glare reduces the distance a person is able to see because it causes light scatter in the eyes. In turn, it reduces the contrast of objects on and around the roadway. This effect is known as disability glare. It worsens as the intensity and closeness of the light increases.
Disability glare can cause the following effects:
- Decreasing the distance at which an object can be seen
- Increasing drivers’ reaction times to objects in and along the road
- Increasing recovery time and ability to detect objects after drivers pass an oncoming vehicle
Oncoming headlights can produce a sensation of annoyance or pain, which can also distract drivers and consequently lead to accidents.
There are a few things you can do before getting behind the wheel to avoid glare disruption. AAA recommends regularly cleaning your headlights. Even a thin layer of grime can block up to 90 percent of light and restrict visibility at night. Windshields should also be free of streaks, smudges and dirt, which can refract light into your eyes. Additionally, have an auto mechanic check your headlights to ensure they are properly aligned to help you see better and reduce glare for other drivers.
When driving, avert your eyes from oncoming headlights. Use your rearview mirror’s night setting to reduce reflected glare from vehicles behind you.
Even the safest drivers can be involved in a car crash when other drivers act carelessly. For decades, our auto accident team has successfully represented catastrophically injured victims and the families of those killed as a result of another motorist’s negligence. If it happened to you or a loved one, we can help. Contact Anapol Weiss for assistance if you or a loved one was harmed in an auto accident.