Driving at night can be challenging for many drivers. Reduced visibility, glare from headlights and increased fatigue are some of the factors that make it hard to navigate roads safely. In this article, we offer six essential tips that can help you drive safely in the NT at night, so you can avoid accidents and arrive at your destination in one piece.
1. Ensure Your Vehicle is in Good Condition
Before you set off on a night-time drive, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Headlights, taillights and signal lights should all be working correctly. Check your tyres for wear and make sure they are properly inflated. Also, your windscreen should be clean and free of any damage, as dirty screens and cracks can cause glare and reduce visibility.
2. Adjust Your Driving Habits
Driving habits should be adjusted according to the conditions you find yourself in. This especially applies to night driving. It’s important to watch and reduce your speed speed, increase your following distance behind other cars and give yourself more time to react to unexpected situations. Avoid sudden movements, such as hard braking or sharp turns, which can increase the risk of an accident.
3. Use Your Headlights Properly
If you’re driving outside of built-up areas at night, vehicle headlights are your primary source of visibility. Keep your headlights on and use your high beams when driving on dark roads with no other traffic. However, if traffic should appear, be sure to switch to low beams, otherwise you could cause an accident.
4. Minimise Distractions
A higher level of concentration is needed to drive at night. Avoid using your phone or other electronic devices and refrain from eating or drinking, as this can distract you from the road.
5. Take Breaks to Avoid Fatigue
Because higher levels of concentration are needed, night driving can be more tiring than during the day. Plan for fatigue and take breaks if needed. If you feel drowsy, pull over to a safe place and take a short nap. If you can, consider stopping for a cup of coffee or tea and a snack to help you stay alert.
6. Watch Out for Wildlife
In the NT, wildlife can appear out of nowhere, particularly at dusk. Kangaroos and wallabies can be on the road at this time and hitting one may cause significant damage and injury to yourself, the animal and your vehicle. Dingos are also nocturnal and can be in the wrong place at the wrong time, so keep your speed down and pay close attention to avoid collisions.
Accidents Happen
If you’ve broken down or been in an accident, Banjo’s Anytime Towing Service provides dependable and trusted towing services in Darwin and surrounds, including Palmerston, Casuarina, East Arm, Howard Springs and Humpty Doo. Our professional team is committed to delivering the highest standards of customer service and quality, 24/7.
Whether your car needs a tow in a remote area after an accident or your heavy duty vehicle needs to get to a mechanic, we’ve got you covered. With our fast and reliable service, you can have peace of mind knowing help is just a phone call away. Contact us today on 0408 171 392 to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.
