Tips to reduce headlight glare when driving at night

At night, the driver's vision is more limited and the glare from other vehicles' headlights can temporarily blind the driver. Driving at night can be a difficult task for new or even experienced drivers.

The highest accident rate occurs at night (18:00-06:00). In addition, the death rate when participating in traffic at night is 3-4 times higher than during the day. The reason is partly due to the driver being tired, stressed or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Another important reason is that at night, the driver's vision is more limited and the glare from the headlights of other vehicles can temporarily blind the driver. Here are some ways to minimize and deal with glare.

Anh Minh Hoa

1. Check the vehicle before starting to drive

This is especially important if you are driving in the early morning or early evening. Before you shift gears, take a moment to identify areas that need cleaning. Keep a cleaning kit in your car so you can do this whenever needed.

2. Clean windshields, windows and glass surfaces

Don’t forget to clean your mirrors as well. Any streaks of dirt or smudges on these surfaces will reduce contrast and make it impossible to see objects on the road. You should also clean the inside of your windshield, as plastic chemicals can build up on the glass over time. Clean your wipers and wash the glass to remove dirt and oxidized rubber from the edges of the blades. If streaks persist, the wipers need to be replaced. Any chips in the windshield should also be repaired immediately.

3. Clean the car headlights

Even a small amount of dirt on a headlight can reduce the amount of light it produces and reduce the ability to see other drivers. This is especially true if the vehicle is equipped with HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlights because dirt will diffuse the light from the headlight and cause glare to other drivers. At least half of all cars today have one or more headlights that are not properly positioned. Properly positioned headlights not only help you see better, but also prevent glare to other drivers. Older cars can improve the performance of their headlights by polishing the exterior of the headlight. Due to exposure to road grime, the exterior of the headlight can become dull. Most auto parts suppliers carry a “polishing compound” specifically designed for the exterior of the headlight.

4. Adjust your car mirrors properly

The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends the following method for installing mirrors. Lean to the left and adjust the left mirror so that you can see the left rear corner of the car. Then lean to the right and adjust the right mirror so that you can see the right rear corner of the car. This mirror setup not only reduces glare but also minimizes blind spots.

5. 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 the glare problem worse.

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

Instead, look down and to the right. Use the right side of the road to track lanes rather than the left. Drivers can still see other vehicles in their peripheral vision, but glare will not affect them as much. Reverse the above instructions if you are driving in a country that drives on the left.

7. Flip the rearview mirror

Users can change the mirror to their night setting by flipping a small lever at the bottom of the mirror. The light will be much dimmer and therefore less obtrusive. Some cars today have electrochromatic rearview mirrors that can dim automatically and do not require manual adjustment.

8. 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.

According to VNN