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Do you know that driving at night is quite different from driving during the day?
All drivers have an increased risk of crashing when driving late at night. But the risk is much
greater for inexperienced drivers. "Remember the risk of
having a crash increases dramatically if you're aged between sixteen and
twenty-four and driving between ten PM and five AM." As hazards are harder to see at night
go easy on the accelerator to allow more time to brake. "Young people tend to crash more at night because we spend
more time driving at night
compared to other drivers." As you can't see much at night, be extra aware
of things like line markings, pedestrians and cyclists. "When I drive late at night
I try to be extra alert and aware of my surroundings."
"Young people drive at night often for social reasons, with passengers of a similar age
who can be a distraction,
or pressure the driver to take risks. "If I drive at night with friends
I try to have only one passenger as this will mean fewer distractions
for me."
Plan your night driving before you leave. For example, know where you're going, or plan
not to drive. If you are dazzled by another car's high-beams ahead, slow down
move towards the left of the lane and lower your eyes to the road. Stop if you can't see where you're going.
If the dazzling is behind you, you can adjust your rear vision mirror. "If I have to drive at night I try to be extra alert and be aware of the risks of driving at that time
as I know it's harder to see hazards at night." "Fatigue and alcohol are the major factors that increase crash risk at night. So if you're
driving, don't drink alcohol
and think twice about driving if you're tired or sleepy." "I know there's a greater risk for
crashing late at night than during the day." "I try to stay clear of driving on Friday and
Saturday nights because I know they can be the busiest nights on the road."
"Things like signs, pedestrians, cyclists and even animals are harder
to see late at night, so I stick to the
speed limit and prepare for the unexpected." Crashes are most likely to
occur during the first six to twelve months of driving on your P1 licence.
This is the time when you haven't had much experience driving alone or at night.
Next time you're driving at nightime stay alert and be prepared.
Visit mylicence.sa.gov.au for more driving hints and tips.