Nighttime driving in Pennsylvania is more hazardous than venturing out during the day for a number of reasons. Road construction crews often work at night to prevent disruption to the morning and afternoon rush hours, and the number of drunk drivers surges after the sun goes down. The dangers of these additional hazards are magnified by limited visibility.
Not only does decreased visibility make it more difficult for motorists to see other road users and hazards in the roadway, but it also makes it harder for them to gauge distances accurately. Road safety experts say that the best way to mitigate these nighttime driving risks is to reduce speed, remain vigilant, maintain safe distances and leave ample space for other motorists. Those who find driving at night especially difficult may wish to ask their physicians to test them for nyctalopia, which is also known as night blindness. While there is no cure for the condition, modern medicine can make living with it more bearable.
Even drivers with excellent vision can be temporarily blinded by glare. Experts advise drivers to avoid glare by looking at the side of the road rather than oncoming headlights. Drivers should also turn their headlights on earlier rather than later.
Drivers act negligently when they fail to adapt to changing road conditions, and they could face civil sanctions when nighttime car accidents are caused by excessive speed or other recklessness. Car accident victims frequently suffer injuries that prevent them from working and bringing home a paycheck. However, a personal injury attorney may seek compensation for lost income when pursuing litigation on a client’s behalf.