As the clocks go back Sunday morning, some 52 per cent of Brits are worried about being in a car accident while driving in the dark and younger drivers fear it most.
The numbers increase for younger drivers, with 57 per cent of 18-34-year-olds wary of driving in the dark.
“Driving in the dark is unavoidable, but it’s undeniably more dangerous. These tips can help prevent a nighttime driving accident; whether it’s keeping a safe distance between the car in front of you, or ensuring your car lights and windscreen are clean.
“If you wear glasses, it’s also recommended that you purchase anti-glare lenses to help protect you from the bright light of other cars. Being dazzled by headlights appears to be a growing problem – 60 per cent of Brits also say that new car model headlamps are dangerous, as they are too bright.”
Here’s an essential guide for ensuring that late-night driving is safer for you and other drivers:
Pack an emergency kit
Visibility is key should your car break down in the dark. It’s highly recommended that you pack essential items such as a hi-vis jacket and a warning triangle.
Park correctly
Your parked car isn’t as easy to see at night, which increases the risk of it colliding with another driver. The Highway Code states that all vehicles must park against the direction of traffic flow, and display parking lights on a road with a speed limit greater than 30 miles-per-hour. Failure to do this may result in a hefty fine of more than £1,000.
Don’t drive tired
Although many of us may still drive home when we’re tired, this increases the risk of an accident on the road – it’s estimated that up to 20 per cent of crashes are related to fatigue. If you’re feeling sleepy, pull over at the nearest services for some much-needed rest.
Check your lights & windscreen
Make sure your lights are working before you begin to drive during the dark. This will not only help keep you and other drivers safe, but also prevent a criminal offence (it’s illegal to drive with faulty headlights). Make sure to check all of your lights, including your fog lights. If your lights stop working while driving, pull over immediately and switch on your hazard lights. Windscreens should be clean, washer bottle full and rubber wiper blades working without breaks in them or smearing.
Consider anti-glare glasses
The reflection of bright lights from other cars can be dazzling while on the road. Headlight brightness appears to be a growing issue, with 60 per cent of Brits feeling that new car model headlamps are too bright. Anti-glare glasses are effective at reducing this problem by minimising the amount of light reflected off the surface of your lenses. And luckily, anti-glare lenses can be fitted in place with your current lenses at an opticians.
Keep a safe distance between cars
While keeping distance between cars is always important, it’s even more vital at night. The rule is usually to stay two seconds from the driver in front of you, but it’s recommended that you increase this slightly at night, particularly when there’s reduced visibility.
Choose a well-lit route
If you know your route, ensure to drive home down roads that you know have a lot of street lighting. If you don’t know your way home, install a satnav and check for main routes along your journey, as they will be more well-lit than country lanes.
Use your headlights
Using your headlights will not only ensure you’re visible for other drivers, but also prevent a large fine. Rule 226 of the Highway Code states that you must use headlights if you cannot see further than 100m – otherwise, you may be forced to pay a sum of £1,000.
Expect the unexpected
Children, animals, and cyclists are harder to spot when it’s dark, especially in dimly-lit areas. To avoid a potential collision, be extra aware in higher-risk areas, such as country roads or schools.
And here’s some advice from IAM Roadsmart for older drivers
1. Give yourself a “Driver MOT”
Just like your car needs regular checks, so do you: Eyesight check – make sure your glasses prescription is up to date. You should be able to read a number plate from 20 metres. It’s a good idea to have your eyes tested every two years, and if you are over 60, it’s free. Hearing check – being aware of sirens, horns or engine sounds is vital. Reaction time – if you notice slower responses, consider adjusting your driving habits (e.g. avoid busy times or tricky junctions). Medication review – some medications affect alertness. Ask your GP or pharmacist if you’re unsure.
2. Watch out for headlight glare
Glare from oncoming vehicles can be more noticeable at night. Here’s how to reduce the impact: Keep your windscreen clean – inside and out. Dust or smears make glare worse. Check your glasses – some lenses can make glare worse at night. Anti-glare coatings may help. Look slightly to the left of oncoming headlights to avoid direct exposure. Dip your interior mirror – use the night mode to reduce glare from cars behind.
3. Prepare your car for the season
Check all lights – make sure headlights, brake lights, and indicators are working. Replace wiper blades if they’re smearing or skipping. Top up screen wash with winter mix to prevent freezing. Check tyre tread and pressure – good grip is essential on wet or icy roads.
4. Plan for shorter, darker days
Avoid rush hour if possible; roads are busier and more stressful at that time. Use well-lit routes – stick to roads you know and avoid unlit rural roads. Allow extra time – give yourself time to drive more slowly in low visibility.
5. Know your limits – plan alternatives
Don’t feel pressured to drive if you’re uncomfortable in low light or poor weather. Consider public transport, lifts from friends/family, or local community transport schemes. If you’re unsure about your driving, a refresher lesson with an instructor can boost confidence.
Top Tip:Keep a “Winter Ready” kit in the car including, torch, blanket, water, snacks, phone charger, hi-vis vest, ice scraper and de-icer.
IAM RoadSmart Director of Policy & Standards Nicholas Lyes said, “The clocks going back not only means darker evenings, but they also bring increased risk on the road.
“Historically, November often sees a spike in the number of collisions as reduced grip and visibility catches out the unprepared driver. Now is a good time to check your car is winter-ready, particularly focusing on tyres, wipers, screen wash and checking your lights are working properly and aimed correctly.
“Drivers should give extra space to the vehicle in front and allow themselves more time for their journeys, particularly for the evening rush hour as this is the time of day when collisions are increasingly likely.”
