If you’ve ever had the pleasure of driving on South Carolina’s roadways, you already know that potholes and ever-changing weather conditions are the least of your concerns.
According to MoneyGeek, who analyzed data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found driving at night is nine times more dangerous than driving during the daytime.
Unfortunately, that’s not all. In addition to its current ranking as the fourth most hazardous state for car accidents, South Carolina now holds the eighth spot for the most dangerous state for nighttime driving.
What makes nighttime driving more dangerous than other times of the day? What happens if you get into a car accident while driving at night?
Keep reading to see what our car accident lawyers at Hoffman Law Firm have to say about the dangers of driving at night in South Carolina!
Is Driving at Night Really More Dangerous?
While the sunset may look breathtaking from behind the wheel, certain hazards make driving at night more dangerous compared to dawn, day, or dusk hours.
One of the most common hazards of nighttime driving is low lighting conditions. According to Progressive, “low light negatively affects depth perception, color recognition, and peripheral vision” – all of which are vital necessities when getting behind the wheel.
Unfortunately, the absence of sunlight is not the only light we have to worry about on the road. Headlight glare is another major hazard that can have devastating effects. According to the NHTSA, “Headlights produce two kinds of glare called discomfort glare and disability glare. Discomfort glare is the distracting and even painful sensation you feel when viewing a bright light.”
Discomfort glare can force drivers to slow down, shift their focus away from the road or even drift out of their own lane, potentially resulting in a car accident with another motorist.
Despite only 9% of driving occurring from sunset to sunrise, MoneyGeek’s analysis found 49% of fatal accidents occur during this time period. If you’ve found yourself in a nighttime auto accident, Hoffman Law Firm is here to help.
What Should You Do if You Get into a Car Accident at Night in South Carolina?
Getting into a car accident at night follows a similar process to getting into an accident during the day, albeit with a few safety precautions.
Utilize Emergency Flashers
If you become the victim of a nighttime car accident, keep in mind low light conditions can hinder other drivers from seeing the scene of the accident – and yourself – properly. If your vehicle is not drivable, turn on emergency flashers or use an emergency flare if the situation permits to warn other vehicles what’s happening.
If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic and onto the side of the road or shoulder. But don’t forget to still turn your emergency flashers on!
Call 911
In the event of any accident, whether during the day or in the dead of night, call local law enforcement to the scene. They will document the scene of the accident in detail and provide a police report for official record.
Document the Scene
During an accident, the initial moments afterward are some of the most important. While you wait for law enforcement, take pictures of the accident and vehicles involved, exchange information with the other parties involved, and get the information of any witnesses.
Seek the Help of Car Accident Lawyers Near You
The aftermath of a car accident can be daunting, especially when the accident itself wasn’t your fault. With help from our dedicated team of car accident attorneys at Hoffman Law Firm, we will work with you to ensure you seek justice and total compensation for your nighttime accident.
Don’t Let a Full Moon Scare You Away from Compensation–Hoffman Law Firm is Here to Help!
Driving at night is no easy task, from unsettling fatigue to limited visibility. Even when you’ve done everything in your power to limit your risks, you never know if other drivers have done the same.
As one of the leading law firms in Charleston, SC, we know that even the best-laid plans can result in an unexpected accident or injury. However, don’t let a full moon scare you away from compensation!
Our team of car accident lawyers are available to discuss your situation specifically and what we can do to help you moving forward.
Plus, you only pay us if we win your case.
We have established a reputation for success and great service! To meet with a member of our team, contact Hoffman Law Firm today.
