It happens that as we age, we experience problems when driving at night. The darkness or low-light surroundings make it more difficult for us to see. Thus driving during the night can be very challenging for senior drivers, who are experiencing decreased vision, certain health conditions and slower motor reflexes. Here are some tips that will help you drive safely at night:
1. Drive on the roads that you know and on safer routes
It's suggested to drive on roads you usually go and are familiar with, so you may feel more safer. Some highways have raised strips built into them. While the ramps were there to make you drive slowly, they can be dangerous if you are an older driver. It would be safer to choose the smooth roads.
2. Keep up on your car's maintenance
Always check the engine or the need to change oil to ensure that your vehicle is always ready to go. The tire pressure, lights and turn signals should not be forgotten. Keep the headlights, windshields and mirrors clean, to give you a clear view. Adjust your seat for maximum visibility, while on the road at night.
3. Use a night vision system
The ability of older people to see moving objects, while they are behind the wheel is influenced by aging. Night vision systems (NVS) allow you to have increased visibility of objects ahead. These sensors present a high contrast image of the things or people on the roadway, before they are seen by the headlights.
The Lanmodo Vast Pro night vision system is among the latest in car technology. It is a great help to senior drivers, as it can make their driving easier, better and safer. Although the system was first introduced in the market, it has attracted many people's attention and get reported by Youtubers and magazines. Lanmodo night vision system is equipped with front-facing camera that presents a 45-degree angle of view. Additionally, it has the ability to see accurately a range farther on than what is able to be seen with the headlights; to about 300 meters or very close to 1,000 feet. The camera also is planned to improve visibility in low light surroundings, so a clear image is displayed on the 8”, 1080P HD screen.
The Lanmodo NVS makes it easy for senior drivers to spot vehicles, people, animals or any obstacles on the road, as even the streetlights are not sufficient to light the roadways.
4. Renew your skills with a driving course
Think about taking a refresher course, so that you can update your driving skills. It is a good thing when you can gain new knowledge on road rules. This can make you feel more confident, with regards to your driving skills, even at night. Depending on your policy, this might even get you a discount on your vehicle insurance payment. There are these types of courses in your local organizations or community education programs that are geared towards senior drivers.
5. Reduce your speed when driving at night
Give yourself time and don't rush home or wherever it is you are going. As people get older, the pupils get affected especially in the dark. They do not widen quickly so that light can reach the retina. Due to this, only 33% of natural light can reach the retina of a senior driver, compared to a younger one. Therefore, when you are a senior and you are driving at night, do drive slowly to prevent accidents. You can safely reach your destination, without getting hurt.
6. Have your eyes examined on a regular basis
Eye doctors recommend regular eye examination for people who are over 60 years of age. This should also be done to those, who are younger, but already are experiencing reduced vision. You need to be sure that you do not have those age-related eye conditions, such as macular degeneration. It is a condition that affects the central part of the retina that can cause distortion or loss of central vision. In some cases, an ophthalmologist may recommend eye examinations more frequently.
