Late-night driving can fray your nerves, whether heading out on a road trip or just driving home from work. Experiencing poor visibility and fatigue makes us appreciate how much more convenient it is to drive during daylight hours.
Sometimes, you have no choice but to hit the darkened road to reach your destination. But, before heading out, brush up on these five tips to be a safer, happier late-night driver.
1. Be Prepared for Emergencies
If you’re planning a road trip, it’s important to prepare for any eventuality. That means having the right equipment on hand in case of an emergency, like a flat tire. Items to pack in your emergency kit include a smartphone charger, first aid kit, flares, extra washer fluid, and the best rechargeable flashlight.
A quality light source is essential to have in your emergency kit. While you can keep a regular flashlight in your kit, having a tactical light never hurts. The best tactical flashlight will offer different light settings, like strobe mode, that can catch others’ attention if you’re stranded.
2. Check Your Car Before Heading Out
Before embarking on a late-night road trip, ensure your car is in good working condition. Prioritize the basics, like the oil level, tire pressure, and wiper blades. Let an experienced mechanic check under the hood before hitting the road if something feels off about your vehicle.
If you take your car in for service before a road trip, have the technician check your vehicle’s headlight alignment. Over time, headlights can become misaligned from regular use. You should also test your low and high beams to ensure they work properly before driving at night.
3. Drive With Extra Caution
When driving at night, it’s important to be extra cautious. Pay attention to your speed, and look for animals and other road hazards. Note road signs alerting you of deer and other wildlife in the area.
Use your high beams when navigating isolated areas. Extra visibility makes it easy to see everything in front of you and prepare for unexpected road obstacles, hazards, and curves. Use your high beams when there is no oncoming traffic, but be sure to dim them when other vehicles approach.
4. Take Breaks Often
When driving at night for extended periods, take breaks often. Get out of the car to stretch every few hours to feel alert and refreshed for the rest of the drive.
It’s also critical to watch for signs of fatigue during late-night road trips. If your eyes droop or your attention wanders, pull over on the side of the road or stop at the nearest rest stop. It’s better to continue the drive the next morning when you’re more alert.
5. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
It’s always a good idea to plan your route before a road trip. This way, you’ll know what to expect and can make necessary stops along the way. If you’re using a GPS system, program it before you get on the road so you don’t have to adjust it while on the road.
If you use a navigation app on your smartphone, look for one with helpful features. For example, some apps alert you of hazards on the road ahead and let you know when to leave to avoid traffic. You can also share your drive in real time with others, so a friend or relative always knows where you are.
With proper preparation, late-night road trips can be scenic and peaceful. You can have a safe and enjoyable road trip by following these tips.
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