For many Pennsylvania motorists, driving at night can present a unique set of challenges and hazards. As a result of these hazards, the rate of car accident fatalities are three times greater than the rate of fatalities that occur during the day.
The hazards of driving at night include decreased visibility and night blindness. Drivers understandably do not see as well at night as they do during the day. This can make it more difficult to see other cars, road signs, pedestrians and even animals. For drivers who suffer from nyctalopia, or night blindness, seeing in the dark can be even more difficult. Drivers may also be more at risk for encountering drunk drivers or sudden construction activity.
People who regularly drive at night can reduce their risk of becoming involved in a crash by following certain tips. These include ensuring that headlights and brake lights are working properly. They can also be careful with their high beams to prevent temporarily blinding other drivers. Drivers should also slow down and increase their following distance, which gives them additional time to react to a sudden animal crossing or other emergency that could occur. Finally, those who begin to feel drowsy should pull over and take a quick nap.
When drivers fail to operate their vehicles in a safe manner at night, they could cause car accidents that results in serious, life-altering injuries. In some cases, these injuries could prevent victims from being able to earn an income or live their life as they did before. A personal injury attorney could work with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to reach an appropriate settlement out of court. This settlement could include compensation for medical bills and other damages associated with the accident. If negotiations out of court do not result in a settlement, the attorney may take the case to trial.
