Driving Safely at Night
Reducing Glare when Driving at Night
Driving at night can be challenging for anyone, but as we get older, it can be particularly difficult due to reduced vision and increased sensitivity to glare. Glare from headlights, streetlights, and other sources can make it difficult to see the road and other vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce glare and improve your safety while driving at night.
Clean the Windshield: A dirty windshield can make glare worse. Make sure to clean the inside and outside of the windshield regularly, and replace worn wiper blades to ensure a clear view of the road.
Adjust the Mirrors: Properly adjusted mirrors can help reduce glare from headlights behind you. Adjust your rear-view mirror to the night setting, which will reduce the brightness of headlights behind you. Additionally, adjust your side mirrors so that they cover your blind spots, which will also help reduce glare.
Wear Anti-Glare Glasses: Anti-glare glasses can help reduce the amount of glare that enters your eyes. Consider discussing this with your optician and perhaps investing in a pair of glasses with an anti-reflective coating that can help reduce glare from oncoming headlights.
There are also night glasses that have a pale-yellow tint. Some are designed to fit over your normal glasses. Take care not to use glasses that are heavily tinted as a heavy tint can also reduce visibility.
Dim Dashboard Lights: Bright dashboard lights can create a distracting glare that can make it difficult to see the road. Dim the dashboard lights or turn them off altogether to reduce glare.
Keep Headlights Clean: Dirty headlights can reduce visibility and increase glare. Make sure to clean your headlights regularly to ensure they are working properly and to reduce glare.
Follow Safe Distance Guidelines: Maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you, especially when encountering bright headlights or reflective surfaces. This precaution allows for additional time to react to sudden changes and reduces the impact of glare.
Take Breaks: Driving at night can be tiring, especially when we get older. Take breaks every few hours to rest your eyes and reduce fatigue.
By following these tips, you can reduce glare and improve your safety while driving at night. Remember to always drive defensively and stay alert, and if you feel uncomfortable driving at night, consider limiting your night-time driving or asking someone else to drive.