How to Be a Better and Safer Night Time Driver
Your vision at night is reduced not only because you are exhausted, but also a lack of light, which makes it tough for you to avoid possible dangers or other motorists. There is one great thing about night motoring, though, and that is less traffic on the streets, providing you with more liberty when driving.
Anytime you are about to take a drive in the dark you will want to verify your headlamps are dirt- free and running properly. It is a law for night driving that your sidelights and number plate lights be turned on. When checking your headlights you need to make sure they are aligned correctly so as not to annoy or distract other drivers. When you feel that your headlamps are not lining up you should have them tested and retuned by a professional auto mechanic.
A factor in the alignment of your headlamps can be a weighty freight in the rear or boot of your vehicle. It could cause the headlamps to be higher than normal. This can be disturbing to other road users; however, you can slightly re-align the bulbs with the adjustment switch in your vehicle.
As soon as the street lights come on where you are driving you need to turn on your headlight bulbs. Any time there is inclement weather or the sky is a dull grey you also need to have your headlights on. It allows other motorists to see you plainly. When you have a dark or dull coloured vehicle it is especially imperative that you switch on your lights, as these cars are more difficult to see.
At night, dipped beam headlights should be used at all times, however on unlit roads you should also use your main beam headlights. Always be aware that main beam headlights can dazzle other road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, so always be ready to switch them off before approaching them.
Anytime you follow another vehicle the dipped beam head lights need to be used. When you feel you need to pass another vehicle be aware that your sight can be reduced and illusions can be created by shadows. Dips or curves in the road can be particularly difficult as you pass another vehicle.
Oncoming lights can be dangerous, as they affect how you can see. There are things you can do to avoid this experience. Rather than looking directly at the light as you are wont to do you should instead look to the left of the lights.
Your windshield should be kept clean of grease, dirt, or other grime as this can affect a light beam. Chips and cracks can also make a distraction. Your vehicle rear view mirror has two settings. One is for night driving to lower the impact of cars following. You should use this ability. Also remember to slow down at right hand bends because you could find lights affecting your sight.
You should not be afraid of driving at night, but instead enjoy the uncongested roads and the feel of freedom.
Due to the reduced visibility when night driving it is important that you always fit the best replacement car bulbs that you can afford. Because bulb technology has advanced considerably you can now install new H7 headlight bulbs that ensure that you can see much further into the darkness.
Tags: Car Safety Tips, driving tips, cars - automobile