8 things to keep in mind when driving at night

Driving at night, even with less traffic, requires careful preparation of the vehicle. Here are some suggestions for what to do when behind the wheel after dark.

1. Clean all glass surfaces

Any scratches, stains, or dirt on the windshield will scatter light, reduce the contrast of objects on the road, and sometimes make the driver unable to see them, especially when driving at night. If you have cleaned the windshield wipers in many ways (paper towels, soapy water, etc.) but the windshield is still dirty, you should replace it because the rubber has aged.

2. Clean the headlights

Dirt on the headlights reduces the brightness and limits the driver's ability to see clearly. It should be noted that just because the car has a self-cleaning system, you do not need to pay attention to it, because there are stains that can only be cleaned by human hands and appropriate tools.

For old cars, to improve the lighting efficiency of the headlights, the surface of the lights must be polished. There are chemicals sold on the market to clean and polish this cluster of lights.

3. Adjust the rearview mirrors properly

Tilt your head to the left, leaning against the windshield to adjust the left side mirror so that you can clearly see the left rear corner of the car. Continue tilting your head to the right side to the middle of the car and adjust the right mirror so that you can see the right rear corner of the car. This is the position recommended by the American Automobile Association (AAA), which helps reduce glare, blind spots, and helps the driver easily identify other vehicles coming from the side and rear.

4. Check your vision regularly

People under 45 should have their eyes examined at least twice a year, and those over 45 should have them examined once a year. There are many types of glasses that can help improve vision. If you wear contact lenses, check them for scratches.

HUD technology on the BMW 3 Series will help drivers reduce eye strain when having to constantly adjust their eyes to near and far. All information is displayed on the windshield, making it very easy to see.

5. Avoid looking directly into the headlights of oncoming vehicles.

Instead, look down and to the right. Watch the lane markings and stay on the right side of the lane rather than the left. You can see ahead if you concentrate in this position without being affected by oncoming headlights. Flash your signal lights if oncoming vehicles have their high beams on, and of course, remember to keep your low beams on too.

6. Move the rearview mirror and turn off the car lights

Switch the rearview mirror to night mode by turning on a small lever at the bottom of the mirror. The light is no longer directly shining on it, so it will be dimmer and less obtrusive. Turning off the car's lighting and reducing the intensity of the dashboard's backlighting will help increase concentration and ease your eyes.

7. Take a break if you have to drive at night for many hours

Just 15 minutes of shut-eye can relieve fatigue and help restore your eyes. Take a nap or go for a walk afterward to stay alert.

8. Drive at the right speed and carefully

On winding or steep roads, it can be dangerous to be dazzled by headlights ahead. Driving slowly will help you handle this situation more easily and make the turn safely.

According to doanhnhansaigon