As Winter Approaches Practice Safer Nighttime Driving

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on September 15, 2015

September 21 is the autumn equinox – the day where the hours of daylight equal the hours of darkness.  After this date, we’ll see more darkness than daylight every day until mid-March.

As days gets darker, it’s important to keep safe nighttime driving in mind.  Being able to see clearly is important to safe driving.  Avoid a serious car accident by practicing safer driving with these tips from the National Safety Council:

• Prepare your car for night driving While doing your scheduled maintenance for winter driving, clean your headlights, taillights, mirrors and all windows.
• Make sure headlights are aimed properly When headlights are aimed too high, they make it difficult or impossible for oncoming traffic to see. Make sure your headlights are aimed so you can see clearly without blinding other drivers.
• When in doubt, turn your headlights on If the day is gloomy or night is falling, switch on your headlights. It’s always better to be seen!
• Slow down and leave more space between your vehicle and the one ahead Driving slower and leaving more room at night gives you more time to maneuver in a sudden emergency.
• If taking a long drive, stop frequently Stopping every half hour for a light snack or a quick walk around the car will keep you more alert. If you feel sleepy, stop someplace safe and take a short nap, or ask a person more awake to take over.

At Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S., our experienced Seattle car accident lawyers can help you protect your legal rights after a crash.  Contact us today to learn more. We can be reached at (888) 228-3860.