Once Daylight Saving Time comes to an end—approximately at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 4, 2018—many people will spend more and more time driving when it’s dark outside. Unfortunately, many car accidents occur during the evening for various reasons.
The most common dangers of nighttime driving include, but are not limited to the following:
- Decreased visibility – We experience difficulty seeing in low-light conditions, especially the older we get. The darkness makes our peripheral vision worse and negatively affect our ability to judge distances and unexpected situations on the road. Motorists should drive at reduced speeds and limit distractions during the night, especially when other vehicles are on the road. For elderly drivers, it is wise to get annual vision exams.
- Fatigue – Not only do many adults feel tired when driving during the evenings, but some have also actually fallen asleep behind the wheel. Common reasons why include long work hours, the type of shift (i.e. graveyard), and even a lack of good sleep. Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. It is important to get at least seven hours of sleep at night and avoid driving if you have been awake for 24 hours. If you feel drowsy, pull over in a safe area and get some rest.
- Intoxicated driving – Collisions involving drivers under the influence often occur during the evenings and early mornings, specifically between midnight and 3 a.m. on the weekends. Not only are drivers intoxicated on alcohol and illegal substances, but also prescription medication. If you are under the influence of any substance, it is wise to call an Uber or cab rather than risk your life—and the lives of others on the road—operating your motor vehicle.
- Rush hour – From the crowded roads to aggressive driving by motorists wanting to get home after work, evening rush hour occurs between 4 and 7 p.m. on the weekdays. If you are stuck in rush hour traffic, just be patient, drive slowly, stay in your lane, and be on the lookout for any motorcycles passing by.
If you have suffered an injury in a car accident that occurred at night, contact our Fort Worth personal injury attorney at the Law Office of James M. Stanley to determine all of your legal options in order to pursue an accident claim today.