A number of people are uncomfortable driving in the dark and avoid traveling along Maryland roadways once the sun has set for the day. These people may in fact have good reason, as the risk of getting into a fatal car accident increases significantly during nighttime hours. According to the National Safety Council, people who drive at night are three times more likely to get into a fatal car accident than those who drive during daylight hours.
There are a number of factors that make driving at night more dangerous. The ability to see and perceive things clearly is greatly reduced in low-light conditions. This is especially true for people who are over the age of 50. As people age, they may find it more difficult to focus on objects, accommodate their vision and judge depth perception in the dark. This can make it hard to determine the distance and speed of approaching vehicles, and as a result, people may pull out if front of another vehicle. In addition, the glare from oncoming headlights can cause temporary blindness and loss of peripheral vision for a time.
In addition to reduced vision, there is a higher rate of drunk and drowsy drivers on the road at night, according to Esurance. Drivers who have not gotten adequate sleep or who have just left the bar pose a serious danger to other people who are traveling. As a result, motorists should be even more cautious and aware of their surroundings when driving at night.