According to the National Safety Council, traffic crash death rates are three times greater at night than during the day. Nighttime driving has many pitfalls, and a lack of alertness and preparation can make you an unfortunate statistic. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe when cruising at night: 1) Stay alert. Many studies and statistics show that drowsiness behind the wheel can be disastrous. If you haven’t gotten sufficient rest, you could find yourself nodding off at the wheel. Try to avoid driving when you are overtired. If you are on the interstate, pull off at a rest stop (if your situation allows), and nap for a few hours. You’ll feel a lot better. If you must drive while sleepy, then some precautions are in order. Simple steps like opening the window or putting the radio on a lively station can help. Stopping the car and walking around for awhile can also help wake you up. 2) Avoid driver distractions-namely cell phones and test messaging. Driving at night can be dangerous enough-don’t add any more problems into the mix. Many of the nighttime crashes cops handle are a direct result of drivers being distracted because they were using the cell phone. Pull over if you need to make a cell phone call. If this is not feasible, then purchase a hands-free mount for your phone. Voice-activated dialing is also a good idea. Additionally, you should never, ever text message while driving. This may sound like a no-brainer, but more and more motorists are engaging in this activity. Other driver distractions such as playing with the stereo, eating and talking to passengers should also be avoided. 3) Make sure all of the vehicle equipment works properly. Don’t slack off on getting that inoperative headlight or cracked taillight fixed. Dim headlights or burned-out brake lights are also a problem. The purpose of lighting equipment is to warn other nighttime drivers of your presence. Even if you are a very safe driver, an improperly lit vehicle can be a crash magnet for a motorist that isn’t paying attention. 4) Try to drive below the speed limit. The speed limit is geared towards driving during optimal conditions. Obviously, decreased visibility makes nighttime driving not optimal. You can better address potential roadway hazards when you are traveling below the speed limit for the particular area. Keep your eyes open, stay off the cell phone, stay awake…and you will increase your chances of making it to your destination safely. Category:Home › Home • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 2 • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 1 • Should the crew of the Sea Shepherd board whaling ships? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 13 • Grandparents: Can blogging chronicle your genealogy? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 12 • Are teachers unions the cause of public school problems today? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 11