As restrictions are lifted and summer begins, many Tennessee residents may be thinking about getting away from home for a while. Road trips are a popular way to travel to vacation destinations and see a variety of sights along the way. Often, such trips involve driving after dark, which can be challenging for many drivers and can greatly increase the chances of becoming involved in an accident. Nighttime drivers can improve the safety of their experience by heeding the following advice.
Trip preparation is important
Before beginning any road trip, drivers are smart to take their vehicle for routine maintenance, including an oil change, battery check, tire rotation, etc. It is also important to be sure headlights are working properly. Just prior to the trip, drivers should also be sure their headlights and windshield are clean and free from cracks. Built-up grime on a windshield increases glare from surrounding lights and can affect the driver’s ability to see the road clearly. It is also a good idea to pack emergency supplies, including things such as a first aid kit, flashlights, windshield washer fluid, blankets, etc.
Nighttime drivers should take extra precautions
Drivers can also take extra safety measures during the trip itself. They should be sure they are well-rested and alert while behind the wheel, be aware when they begin to feel tired, and know when to stop for the night. Drivers also need to be sure they are following posted speed limits and reducing speed accordingly in wet or snowy conditions; this is good advice any time, but particularly so for someone driving in the dark when the field of view is limited. As well, nighttime drivers are smart to practice defensive driving strategies, since it is especially difficult to see other objects (pedestrians, animals, other vehicles) in the dark.
Many Tennessee residents look forward to getting out and about in the coming months, and no doubt, much of this traveling will involve nighttime driving, sometimes for long stretches of time. While many people are excited about enjoying some long-awaited freedom, nighttime drivers should follow these safety measures to try to decrease the chances of a motor vehicle accident. Unfortunately, even prepared drivers sometimes become involved in an accident and may find themselves in need of help from an experienced personal injury attorney.