Is it Safe to Drive at Night?

Whether you’re coming home from work late, heading back from a social event or even if your job is after hours, chances are you have had to decide whether or not you should drive at night. For many, there is no other option. But if you have the choice of either driving during the night or waiting until the sun rises, you may want to consider it.

The Dangers of Driving at Night

Research has shown that driving at night is actually more dangerous than driving during the day. This may come as a surprise due to the increased number of drivers during the day; however, the ensuing factors that cause nighttime driving to present a more significant hazard only increase.

Drunk Driving

A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that the frequency of alcohol-related car accidents that resulted in fatalities was four times higher at night than in the daytime (34% compared to 9%). Further, 16% percent of drivers involved in drunk driving accidents drove during the week, compared to 29% driving on the weekends. Tennessee ranked in the top 8 for states with the most alcohol-related traffic fatalities per year.

Two-Lane Roads

While it may seem that multiple-laned highways with more drivers would pose a greater threat, it has been found that two-lane roads present a higher risk when it comes to night driving. The dangers of two-lane roads can come in different forms:

Swerving drivers
Aggressive lane passers
High beams from oncoming traffic
Uncleaned windshields creating a glare
Sharp turns and hills that create blind spots

Fatigue

A common threat to nighttime drivers is fatigue. Drivers do not just have to worry about being tired; they also must consider that other drivers may be drowsy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that being awake for at least 18 hours equates to having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .05% while not sleeping for 24 hours is the same as having a BAC of .10%.

The Nashville Car Accident Attorneys

Since 2014, the team at Witherington Injury Law has been helping their clients who have been involved in car accidents deal with the aftermath. With almost two decades of experience, we are prepared to take on the legal issues and help you get your deserved justice while you focus on recovery.

Call us today at (615) 697-6503 or fill out a form online to get started with a free case review!