Driving at night can be risky for drivers, and according to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA), drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident during the nighttime than in the daytime. Some of the risks of nighttime driving include but are not limited to:
- Distracted driving. Driving while distracted at any time of the day is dangerous. However, it can be even more of a hazard for drivers, since their vision is already limited because of the darkness.
- Fatigue. Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving because drowsiness can affect the same way that alcohol does. Fatigued drivers often react slower, nod off behind the wheel, and/or drive recklessly. Drowsy drivers can be on the road at any time, but they are most often out/involved in accidents during the nighttime.
- Compromised night vision. If you suffer from night blindness, you can suffer a loss of your central vision, peripheral vision issues, and decreased vision in poor lighting. While driving at night, people can also suffer from impaired depth perception and/or a lack of color recognition.
- Low visibility. In the night, drivers are no longer able to see pedestrians, other drivers, traffic signs, debris on the road, and other obstacles, as well as they, can in the daytime. Because of the reduced visibility, drivers must rely on their headlights and streetlights to allow them to see the road clearly. However, this light may not be enough.
- Rush hour. During rush hour, drivers may drive more recklessly. However, nighttime rush hours can be even more dangerous than daytime rush hour events; as we mentioned, visibility is decreased, and mixing recklessness with the other dangers of driving at night is dangerous.
- Impaired drivers. While impaired drivers are on the road at all times of the day, nighttime is a more likely time to be involved in a fatal accident with a drunk driver.
- Younger or older drivers. Age can be a risk factor for nighttime driving accidents as well. In New Mexico, teen drivers are not permitted to drive between noon and five a.m.; many of the most severe teen driving crashes occur at night, which is why curfews are imposed. Older drivers may also pose a risk to others if their eyes sight has deteriorated or if they have cataracts or degenerative eye diseases.
- Construction activity. Detours, construction work, and other construction-related activities can lead to many accidents during the night. Drivers may not notice signs warning them of the upcoming construction or detours, which can lead to fatal accidents involving drivers and/or pedestrians.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a driving accident, the attorneys at Michael Doyle, Attorney at Law can help you pursue compensation. Call (505) 219-2176 or reach out online to schedule a case consultation.