Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on Nov. 4. That means many people will find themselves driving in the dark as they commute home from work or other daily activities. According to the National Safety Council, at night a driverís visibility is limited to about 500 feet, even when using high-beam headlights. That translates to less time to react to something in the road (like a pedestrian or an animal), especially at higher speeds.The NSC offers these tips for driving at night:
- Ensure vehicle headlights are aimed correctly and keep them clean.
- Dim dashboard displays.
- For those who wear glasses, use anti-reflective lenses and coatings.
- Keep the windshield clean.
- Slow down to compensate for limited visibility and reduced stopping time
Colorado law requires drivers to use headlights before sunrise, after sunset, and when visibility is 1,000 feet or less due to weather conditions. The Falcon Fire Department wants to remind drivers to dim their high-beam headlights when approaching oncoming vehicles to avoid blinding other drivers.Pedestrians and cyclists should also make sure they can be seen during twilight and darkness by wearing bright clothing with reflective strips. Bicycles should be equipped with headlights (which are required by law in Colorado before sunrise, after sunset, and when weather reduces visibility to 1,000 feet or less) and blinking taillights in addition to reflectors.More information on night driving can be found at https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/night-driving
