Chicago Driving Tips - Reduce Glare While Driving at Night

By Matthew Willens  Nov. 25, 2015 9:22p

Driving at nighttime is difficult because of poor visibility; we lose our depth perception, peripheral vision, and ability to see colors.

A driver's vision is affected by the glare of other vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an increasing number of drivers are complaining about headlight glare. Drivers complain that exposure to glare blinds them for a few seconds and they have to slow down as a result. Some drivers have also revealed that they have been involved in a crash or had a near miss because of glare. Due to its increasing intensity, glare causes discomfort to a driver. Nighttime glare obstructs the vision of a driver and increases the chances of a car crash.

Tips to Reduce Glare at Night

Adjust the rearview mirror: Rearview mirrors come with a “night” setting, which allows you to see the vehicles’ lights behind you, but they appear much dimmer. Use the lever on the mirror to choose this setting.

Look to the right: When you notice a car approaching that has its high beams on, do not look directly at the lights. Look towards the right and keep your eyes on the white line. This way, you will avoid the glare and still be able to see the vehicle with peripheral vision.

Avoid using lights inside the car: This can temporarily impair your vision at night.

Wear anti-glare glasses: If you wear prescription glasses, ask your doctor about anti-glare glasses. Make sure there are no scratches on the glasses that can worsen your vision.

Wear sunglasses: Daytime glare from the sun can affect your vision and strain your eyes; wear adequate eye protection when driving during the day.

Keep your headlights clean: Dirty headlights reduce visibility and block up to 90 percent of light.

Maintain Your Car

Keep the windshield absolutely clean when planning to drive at night. Any streaks or smudges on the windshield not only obstructs vision, but also refracts light and increases glare. Get any chips or cracks repaired as soon as you notice them.

Avoid Blinding Other Drivers

Reserve the use of high beams for situations only when it is absolutely necessary. If you notice another driver using high beams and does not dim the lights even as you approach him or her, slow down to make sure you have your vehicle under control. If you get into a car accident because you were blinded by the other vehicle’s light, the other driver may be held partially responsible for the accident.

If you get injured in a car accident caused by another's negligence, speak to a Chicago car accident lawyer to determine liability and get your rightful compensation. Call Willens Law Offices at (312) 957-4166.