Three MORE Steps To Take To Avoid A Connecticut Auto Accident At Nigh

In a previous post we covered three very important ways that you can protect yourself from getting into a Connecticut auto accident at night.  Staying away from being intoxicated or tired behind the wheel and keeping your windshield clean are three things you can do to keep yourself and your passengers safe.  

There are many other things you can do to protect yourself while driving at night.  Taking specific actions behind the wheel, once you’ve made the decision that it is ok for you to drive, can ensure that you arrive at your destination safe and sound for the night.  Here are three more things you can do to keep yourself safe when you’re driving at night.

1. Slow down.  You don’t have to wait for nightfall to follow this step, because excessive speed is at the heart of many auto accidents, but according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) excessive speed plays a factor in more than 1/3 of all reported traffic fatalities after dark.  

2. Use your high beams appropriately.  Your car comes equipped with an extra layer of safety for your evening ride and that is the high beams you can use when you’re  more than 500 feet away from an on-coming car.  This tool is most effective on rural roads or open roads and becomes less effective in congested neighborhoods, but utilizing them effectively can help you see further ahead and avoid any unexpected hazards. 

3. Pay extra care to avoid wildlife.  You’ve heard the expression a deer in the headlights, well it derives from the fact that wildlife often stand and stare at on-coming traffic and if you’re not fully aware of your surroundings you may not see an animal that could cause significant damage and injury to you or your vehicle. Also, some animals are quick, may jump out, and startle you.  Always pay close attention to the road ahead of you.

Driving at night can be treacherous as you work to avoid hazards that may not exist during the daylight hours.  Spending a few extra minutes understanding some of these tips can be the difference between arriving at your destination safely and getting into a Connecticut auto accident that could leave you injured or worse.

Our experienced team of attorneys is standing by to help review your situation if you’ve been injured in an accident.  Contact our office and one of our attorneys will speak with you to work on protecting your long-term interests.