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Nighttime Driving Tips for the Long Nights of Winter

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When we think of winter driving conditions, snow, ice, slush and rain most often come to mind. Yet one factor many of us don’t consider is the length of the nights. The shorter days of winter mean there are more hours of darkness, and that means more time is spent driving in the dark.  Following these nighttime driving tips can also help ensure that you are traveling safely on winter’s dark roads. 

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Be Aware of Lights

Misaligned headlights can not only hamper your ability to see, they can also negatively impact your visibility and blind other drivers. Make sure that your headlights are always properly aligned.

By the same token, avoid looking into the headlights of oncoming traffic and other bright lights out on the road. If the lights of oncoming traffic are blinding you with their glare, look to the right edge of the road and use it to guide your path until you can see clearly once again. 

Another thing to be aware of is the brightness of your dash lights. If the lights are at their brightest setting, it’s possible that they can take a toll on your forward visibility – especially at dusk since our eyes are continually adjusting to the changing level of light. To avoid this dim your interior lights until they are visible, but not distracting. This will make it easier for your eyes to adjust to the lights on the road ahead.

Keep Your Car Lights Clean

Speaking of lights, make sure that your headlights, tail lights and turn signals are clean, and completely clear of snow and ice. This not only makes you more visible to other drivers, it also helps maximize your ability to see what’s around you. Additionally, make sure you keep your car windows clean, as well as  your mirrors clean and adjusted properly. Tip: clean windows with newspaper to avoid streaking and smearing. 

Stay Alert

Did you know that distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents? Distracted driving includes being sleepy, eating, drinking, fiddling with the radio, using your phone, or anything else that takes some or all of your attention off of the road. If you are on a long road trip, stop occasionally or whenever you feel yourself becoming sleepy or distracted. Get out and stretch your legs, or take a break and grab a bite to eat. If you are overly tired, stop and get some rest before getting back on the road. Use hands-free controls for music, and leave the texting for when you are not behind the wheel.

Keep in mind that at night it can be even harder to judge how far away another car is, and how fast it is going. So slow down, follow other vehicles at a safe distance, and always be mindful of other drivers and their position relative to yours. 

Final Thoughts

Before heading out to drive this winter, especially if headed on a long road trip, not only do you need to be prepared, but your car does too. Head over to the Thompson Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Edgewood service department and let our technicians make sure your car is in top condition this winter!

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