Winter is here and with it comes shorter days and longer periods of darkness. There are many precautions you can take while driving to ensure you aren’t left in a vulnerable situation in the dark, and we are here to help!

The following tips will help ensure you back home as soon as possible:

Headlights:

Headlights should be on all times during dark periods. Do not dazzle other drivers, adjust your headlights; change from high beam to low beam when meeting oncoming traffic. Make sure to regularly check the positioning and angle of your lights.

High-beam lights can see an average of 100 metres ahead, dropping to only 30 metres when using low-beam. Lower your speed to compensate for reduced visibility.

Fog lights:

Fog is common during winter months and when combined with darkness can really affect your visibility. Front facing fog light beams spread further than normal headlights this will highlight any upcoming obstructions or dangers. Remember to switch your fog lights off when visibility improves as using fog lights in clear weather can cause glare and a risk of dazzling other road users.

Mirrors:

Position your mirrors slightly downwards to avoid the lights from other cars getting into your eyes. If you are faced with another car’s lights, position your rear-view mirror to a dimmer setting.

Windscreen:

Keep your windshield and mirrors clean making sure there’s no glare directed towards you. Grease or dirt may not be visible during the day so give them a double wipe. Any marks on your windshield may dazzle you.

Tiredness:

Tiredness can be dangerous during late night driving; shorter days can make this even worse. Being tired decreases your reaction times, if you find yourself drooping behind the wheel, have a break, have a coffee or have a quick nap and continue when you feel fresh enough to do so. If driving on long journeys try to take a 15 minute break every two hours.

Night vision:

Regular eye tests will determine how well you can see in low light and darkness. You may need a new or updated prescription.

Safe Driving Emergency toolkit:

Don’t forget to keep emergency toolkits in your car include the following:

  • High-vis vests and coat
  • Multi-tool and window breaker
  • Reflective warning triangles
  • Cones
  • Ice scraper
  • Small shovel
  • Spare tyre
  • Jump leads
  • Flashlight
  • Batteries
  • First-aid kit
  • Antifreeze
  • Cloth

Be prepared:

Car trouble can sometimes happen no matter how well prepared we are and on longer trips ensure you have bottles of water, food and a blanket or warm coat for all occupants of the car in case you do breakdown.

The last step in your protection is giving your car quality, reliable cover. For more information click here or call us on 0818 601 601

The information contained in this article is from https://www.aviva.ie/insurance/car-insurance/driving-in-the-dark/. Source, Aviva December 2017. Cornmarket cannot be held responsible for content contained on external websites.