How to deal with glare from other vehicles, causing 'temporary blindness'

Driving at night can be a daunting task for new drivers or even experienced drivers. Glare from oncoming headlights is a dangerous situation and can cause accidents if the driver loses control of the steering wheel.

So when encountering this situation, how should the driver handle it to avoid causing an unfortunate incident?

Slow down

Glare temporarily impairs vision and slows down a driver's reaction time. Therefore, reducing speed will reduce the likelihood of an accident.

Slowing down and avoiding looking directly into oncoming headlights is a way to prevent drivers from becoming "temporarily blind" when driving at night.

In addition, drivers should keep more distance from the vehicle in front, to have more reaction time if the vehicle in front brakes suddenly.

While slowing down, the driver should try to keep the car to the right, but make sure not to block the way of other vehicles. Moving to the right will give the driver more space to handle and avoid oncoming vehicles.

Do not look directly at oncoming vehicle headlights.

Unconsciously, drivers tend to look at the source of glare, making the situation worse. At this time, be alert to immediately shift your eyes to the right, the part of the road where the car's headlights are not shining, to reduce glare. A small tip is to pay attention to the right lane markings, or the sidewalk on small roads. This way, drivers are not blinded and still ensure the car moves in the correct lane.

Cleaning glass and wipers

Parts that need cleaning include the windshield, door glass (cleaning inside and outside), and rearview mirrors. When light from the car's headlights passes through a dirty windshield, the light is refracted by the dust on the car, thereby increasing the glare of the lights.

The rubber wiper blades on the windshield can be cleaned by moistening a clean cloth or paper towel with glass cleaner and wiping until clean. If the rubber blades are old or damaged, such as torn or hardened rubber, replace them.

How to limit glare from cars behind

In addition to the glare from oncoming vehicles, drivers also have to deal with vehicles coming directly behind them that have their high beams on. In this case, the driver will be dazzled in both the interior and exterior mirrors.

Vehicles equipped with auto-dimming rearview mirrors are the most effective solution in this situation. But if the vehicle does not have this device, the driver can avoid glare in the rearview mirror inside the car by pushing the mechanical lever located at the bottom edge of the mirror.

Adjust your car mirrors properly

For the outside rearview mirror, the American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends the following: the driver places his head against the closed left door and adjusts the mirror until a little of the car's body is visible. Then lean the body an equal distance to the right and adjust the right mirror in the same way.

Check your vision regularly

According to the American Optometric Association, everyone under age 60 should have an eye exam at least every two years and every year after age 60. Eyes become more sensitive as we age. If problems are caught early, they can be treated. If the driver wears glasses or contact lenses, be sure to keep them clean and free of scratches. Scratched and dirty glasses will make glare problems worse.

Take frequent breaks when driving at night for long periods of time.

This will reduce fatigue and give your eyes time to recover. Even the driver should take a short nap or take a brisk walk to stay alert.