Traveling after dark can feel peaceful, but it also comes with hidden risks. Fewer cars on the road do not automatically make nighttime driving safer. In fact, driving at night requires heightened awareness, faster reaction times, and careful planning to avoid serious collisions.
What Makes Visibility Challenging at Night?
After sunset, your ability to judge distances, perceive hazards, and distinguish colors diminishes significantly. Headlights—no matter how bright—only illuminate a limited stretch of road, leaving drivers with precious little time to react to unexpected obstacles such as pedestrians, debris, or fallen branches.
Why Headlight Glare Matters
Oncoming headlights can create blinding flashes that temporarily impair your vision. Even after the vehicle passes, your eyes may take several seconds to readjust. Older drivers, in particular, often need much more light to see clearly, making glare an even greater hazard.
Drowsiness, DST, and Nighttime Risks
Driving late at night often coincides with your body’s natural sleep cycle, increasing the risk of fatigue. Studies show that being awake for just five hours or less can double the chance of an accident. These risks can be amplified during Daylight Saving Time transitions, when sleep patterns are disrupted. While drowsy driving is not the primary focus, it is important to recognize that even minor fatigue slows reaction times and impairs judgment, contributing to nighttime accidents.
When Impairment Becomes Deadly
Nighttime sees a spike in alcohol- and drug-related crashes. Reduced visibility, combined with impaired motor skills, makes any amount of substance use behind the wheel extremely dangerous. First responders report that the highest number of intoxication-related collisions occurs during late evenings and early mornings.
Weather Hazards at Night
Rain, fog, or snow can make nighttime driving particularly treacherous. Wet roads reflect headlights and streetlights, creating confusing patterns and making it harder to stay centered in your lane. Drivers who fail to reduce speed or leave extra space risk hydroplaning or rear-ending the vehicle ahead.
Wildlife Collisions
In New Jersey, seasonal wildlife activity contributes to a high rate of animal strikes. During deer mating season in autumn, deer often dart across roads at dawn, dusk, or after dark. Even cautious drivers can be caught off guard, resulting in costly damage or serious injury.
How to Safely Drive at Nighttime
Clean your windshield, mirrors, and headlights before driving.
Maintain your vehicle and ensure headlights are properly aimed.
Drive at a speed that allows you to stop within the distance illuminated by your headlights.
Pull over during poor weather or low-visibility conditions until it is safe to continue.
Somerset County Car Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Will Help You After a Crash
If a nighttime crash has left you with injuries or mounting expenses, you do not have to face it alone. Our Somerset County car accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. have recovered millions for clients. We offer free consultations from our offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey. Call 732-247-3600 or fill out our online form today.
