Night Driving

Traffic deaths happen at a much higher rate at night than during the day, even though there’s less traffic. In the dark you see less, judge distances worse, and share the road with more tired and impaired drivers. Pedestrian deaths in particular happen mostly after dark.

• All drivers
• Shift workers

Why night is harder

• Headlights only light a limited distance; at highway speed you can “overdrive” them and not be able to stop in time.
• Depth perception, color and side vision are worse in the dark.
• Glare from oncoming headlights temporarily blinds you.
• Older drivers need much more light to see well.
• Fatigue and impaired drivers are more common late at night.

Headlights

• Turn headlights on from dusk to dawn, and whenever visibility is poor. Don’t rely on daytime running lights, which often leave tail lights off.
• Use high beams on dark roads when no one is ahead or coming toward you.
• Dim high beams when an oncoming vehicle approaches (many states require it within 500 feet) and when following another vehicle (often within 200 to 300 feet).
• Keep headlights clean and aimed correctly; cloudy lenses cut light. Replace dim or burned-out bulbs.

Dealing with glare

• Look toward the right edge line, not into oncoming lights.
• Keep the windshield clean inside and out; haze scatters light.
• Use the night setting on your rearview mirror.
• Don’t wear tinted or sunglasses at night.
• If glare is a big problem for you, get an eye exam; it can be a sign of cataracts.

Watch for

• Pedestrians and cyclists in dark clothing, especially on unlit roads. See Pedestrians & Cyclists.
• Deer and other animals, especially at dawn and dusk. See Deer & Animal Collisions.
• Impaired or drowsy drivers weaving or driving without lights.
• Work zones and road crews. See Work Zones.

Fatigue

Your body wants to sleep at night. If you work nights or late shifts, plan for the drive home. See Drowsy Driving.

Last updated: October 1, 2026