Is it safer to drive on the highway at night or during the day?
2 Answers
Driving during the day is safer: During the day, drivers can see road conditions more clearly and anticipate potential hazards. Some drivers believe that at night, the limited range of headlights and the tendency for visual fatigue can make it difficult to see the road ahead, increasing the risk of accidents. Due to restricted visibility at night, obstacles like debris or car parts on the road may be hard to avoid, especially when high beams are used, making it even more dangerous. These issues do not exist during the day, making daytime driving safer. Driving at night is safer: At night, there are far fewer vehicles on the road compared to daytime, and road conditions are less complex. Some experienced drivers argue that nighttime driving simply requires following the car ahead at a safe distance and allowing enough reaction time. While many say nighttime driving can cause drowsiness, truck drivers who are accustomed to night shifts find it manageable as long as they rest well during the day.
For me as a young driver, the most profound experience of driving on the highway is definitely that daytime is safer. In daylight, the road is bright and clear—road signs, vehicles, and the path ahead are all easily visible, eliminating worries about suddenly encountering obstacles like potholes or pedestrians that might be hard to spot. Compared to the pitch-black night where you rely solely on headlights, even a slight lapse in concentration increases the risk. Moreover, during the day, you're more alert and less prone to drowsiness, making long drives less fatiguing. At night, although there are fewer cars and the road seems emptier, your biological clock kicks in, raising the chances of feeling sleepy. Add to that the discomfort of being dazzled by trucks with high beams, and it becomes even more challenging. Considering all factors, daytime driving offers a higher safety margin, so I recommend prioritizing this time slot for trips.
