Nighttime drivers beware: It may be more dangerous to drive in the dark
Studies show that driving at night presents motorists with certain hazards that they may not face during the day.
For many Missouri residents, life does not stop once the sun goes down. In many parts of the state, the roads are still filled with people who are going about their daily business. It may not be surprising to some that motorists are at a higher risk of becoming involved in a serious auto accident during these nighttime hours. According to the National Safety Council, car accident fatality rates are three times higher at night than they are during the day. Since staying at home after sunset is not an option for many people, drivers should be aware of nighttime hazards and learn how to drive cautiously in order to avoid getting into an accident.
Reduced visibility and night blindness
Not only is it harder to see in the dark, but drivers often have difficulties perceiving a vehicle’s distance and speed at night. According to esurance.com, some people suffer from night blindness, which can be caused by certain eye conditions, including cataracts. The NSC also reported that as people age, they need more light in order to see clearly. This may explain why some older motorists feel uncomfortable driving in low-light conditions.
More reckless drivers on the road
Studies show that there are more reckless drivers, including distracted, drunk and drowsy motorists, on the road at night. Fatigued motorists often have a slowed response time when it comes to reacting to various driving hazards. Furthermore, drivers who are texting or engaged in other distractive behaviors may not be able to respond to slowed traffic, pedestrian crossings or objects in the road.
Inexperienced drivers
Research conducted by the Texas Transportation Institute looked at national highway fatality reports during a 10-year period. The study found that teens are at the highest risk of becoming involved in nighttime car accidents, due in part, to their lack of driving experience. Not only are teens more apt to speed through dangerous situations, but they are less likely to wear a seat belt.
Where to turn for help
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be devastating, especially if there are serious medical injuries involved. You or a loved one may suffer from broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries or even paralysis as a result of the collision. An attorney may be able to help ensure you get the compensation you deserve in a personal injury case. Furthermore, a lawyer in Missouri can be helpful when it comes time to make crucial decisions regarding the claims process.