If you drive at night, you are more likely to die at night. And I mean much more likely.

Another study showing the increased danger of night driving has come to my attention. Not because there are significant traffic deaths after dark; we knew that, but instead, it found that daylight savings time increases those deaths. When you think about it, it is not all that surprising. As it gets darker earlier, all the bad things about driving at night simply affect more people.

So, what is causing the danger? The number one reason is that you cannot see as far down the road with headlights as with sunshine. Headlights give you about 250 feet of visibility. If you are traveling at 70 miles an hour, you can cross that distance in 2 seconds. Not much time to react.

Two other important reasons for traffic trouble are drowsiness and drunk driving. Both are arguably nighttime problems.

Tiredness seems to be most prevalent between midnight and 6 am. A driver can quickly lose control of a vehicle if they close their eyes for even a second.

As for drunk driving, what can I say? To be safe, you need to watch out for erratic behavior. The drinker is not looking out for you.

As a younger man, I felt that driving at night was when you could lower your guard a little and enjoy the ride. But my work here at the law office and in reading a lot of research has taught me that this is just not so.

If I could give just one piece of advice about night driving, it would be to slow down. Whether you can see it or not, there is potential danger down the road.

If you suffer from an accident – car, boat, on-the-job, slip and fall , nursing home abuse, etc. – you can talk to us at the Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie (251) 666-1212. Remember that it is free. We want to help you.

Join us on Sunday night for a shortened  NBC 15 LawCall   show here in Mobile. We are taking a break during football season but will return to our 30-minute show later in January. All this season, we have been putting aside a few extra hours on Monday mornings to answer any of your legal questions. Just call our office.

Allen Ritchie

Alabama Personal Injury Lawyer

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