If you feel uncomfortable driving at night, the following suggestions can help:

1. Make sure you are rested and alert. If you are drowsy, sleep before you drive! Even a nap can save your life or the lives of others.

2. Do a complete pre-trip inspection of your vehicle. Make sure to check and clean all lights and reflectors. Dirty headlights cut down your ability to see and make it harder for others to see you.

3. Clean your windshield and mirrors on the inside and outside for safe driving at night. Bright lights at night can cause dirt on your windshield or mirrors to create a glare, blocking your view.

4. If you wear eyeglasses, make sure they are clean and unscratched. Don’t wear sunglasses at night.

5. Use high beams when you can. This will improve your ability to see ahead. Also, do not let the inside of your cab get too bright. This makes it harder to see outside.

6. Avoid blinding others. Dim your lights within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle and when following another vehicle within 500 feet.

7. Do not look directly at lights of oncoming vehicles. If other drivers don’t put their low beams on, do not try to “get back at them” by putting your high beams on. This increases glare for oncoming drivers and increases the chance of a crash.

8. Adjust your speed to keep your stopping distance within your sight distance. This means going slowly enough to be able to stop within the range of your headlights.

9. Drive slower when lighting is poor or confusing.

10. Be especially alert around the closing times for bars and taverns. Watch for drivers who have trouble staying in their lane or maintaining speed, who stop without reason, or show other signs of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Share your insights and experiences. Your advice can save a life.

Thank you!