It is impossible to go for more than a few days without hearing about a fatal car accident on our local roads and highways. A multi-vehicle crash that occurred recently on U.S. 33 in Athens is one of the latest incidents to contribute to these statistics. In yet another accident involving a head-on collision, the driver of one vehicle along with both the driver and passenger of a second vehicle were killed. A second crash resulted from the initial crash that involved a commercial vehicle, but no injuries occurred as a result of this second crash. This incident, like so many others, occurred after dark.
The Unique Challenges and Dangers of Night Driving
Statistics show that a disproportionate number of accidents that result in fatalities occur after dark; this is despite a generally lower traffic volume on the roadways during these times. According to the National Safety Council, traffic accident fatalities are three times higher at night than during daylight hours. Driving at night is more dangerous than driving during the day for a variety of reasons; the lack of natural light, poor night vision, driver fatigue, and the increased presence of impaired drivers are all factors that lead to more dangerous night driving conditions.
Older Drivers and Night Vision
Along with everything else that happens as we age, in general, older people begin to experience a deterioration in our vision – particular at night, when there is less light. According to the American Optometric Association, older drivers are more likely to have issues with their vision that may cause difficulty with their ability to drive; this is sometimes complicated by additional vision issues such as cataracts or other diseases. The American Optometric Association offers some valuable advice to older drivers to help counteract the difficulties that vision concerns have on an older person’s ability to drive safely. Some of these recommendations include having yearly eye exams, driving at slower speeds, taking a driving course, limiting distractions while driving at night, ensuring that any prescription drugs that you are taking do not have side effects that could affect driving ability, and recognizing one’s limitations to drive safely after dark. This last one is arguably the most difficult for many people – yet can be the most important. Knowing when it is time to drive during the day instead of after dark can go a long way in keeping not only yourself, but others, safe.
Contact Ohio Car Accident Lawyers for Help With Your Car Accident Case
If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident, the Ohio Car Accident Lawyers is the place to turn to for legal representation. Our attorneys have handled all varieties of traffic accident cases and work hard to help each one of our clients achieve the best possible results. We are dedicated to your success and do not waver in our commitment to seeing justice served. When you need legal representation for your car accident case, contact our experienced car accident lawyers in Cincinnati, OH for your free case review. Do not delay – let us help you today.
