Driving at night requires increased caution because:
Answers
Traffic moves faster at night.
There is a larger volume of traffic at night.
Drivers cannot see as well at night.
Accidents occur more frequently at night.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Drivers cannot see as well at night.
Explanation:
Driving at night poses unique challenges that require extra caution, primarily due to reduced visibility. As the sun sets, the amount of light decreases, which means drivers have to rely more on their vehicle’s headlights and streetlights to see the road. However, headlights only illuminate a limited distance, making it more difficult to spot obstacles, pedestrians, or animals. This reduced visibility increases the likelihood of accidents and requires drivers to be extra vigilant.
At night, the human eye also has to adjust to the dark, which can take time, especially if a driver moves between well-lit and poorly lit areas. Furthermore, glare from oncoming headlights can impair vision, making it harder to distinguish the road and nearby objects. This combination of factors is why it’s recommended to use high beams when driving on dark, rural roads, provided there’s no oncoming traffic.
Although it is true that accidents do occur more frequently at night, this is largely due to reduced visibility and fatigue, rather than a direct correlation to higher traffic speeds or volume. Drivers are often more tired at night, and fatigue can impair reaction times, judgment, and decision-making abilities. This makes it more difficult to safely navigate the road, especially if the driver is struggling to stay alert.
In contrast, during the day, natural sunlight provides optimal visibility, and most drivers are more awake and alert. While traffic volume can vary depending on the time of day, the primary concern at night is the decreased ability to see clearly, which is why extra caution is necessary. Drivers should take measures such as reducing speed, increasing following distance, and ensuring their headlights are properly adjusted to help navigate more safely in the dark.