How to Drive Safely on a Dark Road

Use extra caution on roadways from dusk to dawn.

Winding mountain roads or rural byways may make for a great drive in the daytime, but a scary one in the dark. Many rural roads and even some formal subdivisions, have no inkling of a street light. It takes calmness, concentration and courage to drive safely on a dark road, but it can be done.

Instructions

1. Go slow, or at least at a moderate speed. Dark roads are not meant for race cars.

2. Minimize distractions. Shut off the radio or blaring CD. Don’t reach around for your coffee thermos. Look at the road, not the person in the passenger seat.

3. Keep your eye on the center line. Since you don’t have much else to look at, this should be easy. It will also ensure you don’t weave all over.

4. Use your bright headlights wisely. If a car approaches from the opposite direction or you are driving directly behind someone, turn the bright headlights off.

5. Pull over if you feel frazzled. If you’re being tailgated by a speeding truck, anyone with bright headlights or a driver who wants to pass, let them go around you.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, limit dark road driving to roads on which you have traveled before so you know what’s coming up.

• Pay extra attention to stop signs and warning signs you see, such as deer crossing or those that promise curving roads ahead.

• If you are going to pull over, make sure there is a shoulder to do it on and not a muddy ditch or sheer cliff waiting for you.