HAVING clear vision is crucial when it comes to completing everyday activities; in particular, driving as it requires clear, sharp vision.

Not only is this to keep yourself safe, but also other road users. Driving can be challenging at the best of times and being able to see sufficiently is a legal requirement when behind the wheel.

Driving at night can present many challenges, due to low light and poor vision conditions. It’s crucial that your vision isn’t hindered; if it is, you should take the necessary steps to ensure that you can see properly on the road.

With that in mind, here are some top tips for driving safely at night. 

Clear vision 

To make sure your vision is the best it can be, it’s helpful to attend regular eye examinations. This is the case even if you already wear lenses, as regular examinations will ensure you are wearing an up-to-date and correct prescription. Furthermore, eye examinations every 2 years can also help to identify any new conditions with your vision or eye health.

Wearing glasses for night driving can be a huge help; consider keeping a spare pair of lenses in the car at all times. This ensures you won’t be caught short if you’re leaving in a hurry and forget to pick up your glasses or in case you damage your primary pair. 

Many drivers suffer from glare or reflections from oncoming traffic and street lights, which can be incredibly distracting and even dangerous. You can reduce the risk of an accident by eliminating glare with an anti-reflection coating on your lenses. 

To help ensure you are visible to other road users, it is suggested that you turn on your headlights at twilight. As it gets dark in the evening, your eyes will work hard to adjust to the changing light conditions.

By turning on headlights, you will see more easily but headlights  will cause reflections on glasses lenses creating glare and an uncomfortable experience. With an anti-reflection coating on your lenses you’ll reduce the reflections for a more comfortable and safer driving experience.

In 2014, an Eyecare Trust survey revealed that a huge 73% of those asked suffered from visual discomfort, due to glare. A further 31% of people actually try to avoid driving at night altogether.

Don’t be put off driving in darker conditions! Instead, make sure you have invested in helpful solutions to ensure optimal vision, even in low light conditions.

Wearing glasses for night driving can be very helpful and can help to improve your confidence behind the wheel.

Make sure you know the route and take regular breaks if you are driving, particularly overnight. Being alert is just as important as being able to see clearly.