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While accidents can occur at any time of the day or night, it is important to note that they occur more frequently after the sun has gone down. Why is this? What can we do to make driving at night safer? Here at your local Kia dealer, we have a list of helpful tips to help you drive after the moon has risen. 1.  Drive Defensively At night we cannot see as well. This means we can't see as far and have less time to stop. Additionally, crashes involving alcohol impairment are nearly four times more likely at night. You should never drink and drive, but others might, and it is beneficial to drive extra defensively at night to help stay safe from others on the road who may not be driving responsibly. more 2. Windshield During the day, a crack in your windshield may not seem like a big deal, and neither may a dirty windshield. However, at night the cracks, bugs, and other debris on your windshield can cause glare to worsen. Additionally, the cracks and debris on your windshield can even cast that glare back at other drivers making the situation twice as dangerous. So, keep your windshield and headlights clean to help you see better. 3. Highways While driving on the freeway, there is a space between you and the oncoming lane; the speeds are slower in the city, and street lights help you see. However, on two-lane highways, you do not have the benefit of slow speeds, distance between you and oncoming traffic, or street lights. Therefore, glare is a major issue, and when combined with faster speeds and unexpected curves, you have a recipe for disaster. Avoid two-lane highways at night when at all possible. 4. No Drowsy Driving One of the most prominent issues with nighttime driving is when drivers get drowsy. Crashes due to fatigue are more likely to occur between midnight and six in the morning. If you are driving during these hours, watch for drivers who may be sleepy. If you feel tired, then pull off the road at a safe area and rest. Sometimes this means that you have to be done driving for the night, which is okay; you can start again in the morning. There are a couple of ways that you can help keep yourself alert, like taking pitstops to jog or do physical exercise. In addition, you can turn on your radio and sing, talk to other passengers, or roll down your windows and get fresh air. No matter what you do, ensure that you do not drive when you are sleepy. 5. Eye Exams One of the most important things you can do to help yourself stay safe while driving is to make sure that you have your vision checked. It is a good idea to have your vision checked yearly for changes, especially as we age. Get Your Kia Service in Frederick, MD Scheduled Regularly We want you and your family to stay safe on the road at all times. This includes making sure your headlights are bright, clean, and angled correctly. Contact us at DARCARS Kia of Frederick to schedule an appointment with our Kia Service Department today to keep up with your Kia service schedule.