Night time driving presents numerous hazards and brings with it an increased risk of personal injury, particularly on country roads. Road traffic accidents on country roads at night are common due to the fact that such roads are often badly lit and this poor visibility is often compouded by the roads being narrow and winding.
Thompsons accident compensation lawyers have vast knowledge of dealing with accident claims, from accidents causing minor injury to fatal accidents, and they could help you claim compensation if you have been injured in a road traffic accident. Contact our specialists today for more information.
We serve the whole of Scotland and have offices in the following locations:
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
- Aberdeen
- Peebles
- Galashiels
Night driving: the hazards
Many drivers suffer from the misconception that they can drive faster at night because of reduced traffic on the roads.
However, although there may be fewer drivers on the road at night, accidents can still happen and if you are involved in a road traffic accident which was due to the negligence of another driver, you may be able to bring a compensation claim against them.
It is more dangerous to drive at night due to the fact that a driver’s vision is impaired and it is more difficult to see the road surface and to predict and identify potential hazards. The darkness may also prevent drivers from properly seeing road signs, road layout, pedestrians and cyclists, as well as other types of road user.
Statistics taken from RoSPA show that that 40% of road traffic collisions occur when it is dark. In fact, around 20% of serious personal injury car accidents on the UK’s roads occur as a result of the driver falling asleep behind the wheel.
Additionally, at night it is much more difficult to judge speed and distance as well as the relative speed of other traffic and road users. Young and inexperienced drivers are at particular risk of becoming involved in a car accident at night.
What you can do
There are various steps you can take to reduce your chances of becoming involved in a road accident at night. These may include:
- Keep your windscreen clean so that you can see as much as possible
- Get your eyes tested regularly
- Take regular breaks
- Be well rested
- Test your lights before you set off and make sure you use the correct light setting
- Drive with caution and do not speed
Cat’s eyes on the road are one of the most useful safety devices in preventing road traffic accidents. Cat’s eyes define the road lanes in the dark and they can prevent cars from drifting into other lanes and causing crashes with other vehicles. Road markings can help significantly when driving at night, so be aware of the markings and use them to help you negotiate the course of a road.
Compensation for an accident caused by another party
If you have been involved in a road traffic accident which you believe was the fault of another party, whether it was caused by speeding or some other form of negligence, call our accident compensation lawyers on 0800 0891 331 for free and no-obligation advice and information regarding your possible entitlement to compensation.
Our No Win No Fee policy means that we take care of the financial burden of legal action at an already stressful time for clients; you never have to pay unless your case is a success.
