Driving at night definitely presents unique challenges, such as reduced visibility and driver fatigue. Another consideration is the increased presence of impaired drivers on the roads that night hours bring. Government data shows about one-third of all fatal crashes in the United States happened between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Other factors like headlight glare, unfamiliarity with routes, distracted driving and wildlife can also contribute to nighttime accidents.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident at night, it would be beneficial to contact an experienced car accident attorney. They will know the questions to ask and the evidence to provide that will allow you to best present your case.
It’s Harder to See at Night
One of the main reasons for nighttime car accidents is reduced visibility. The lack of natural light makes it difficult for drivers to see their surroundings effectively. Streetlights and headlights become critical sources of light, but unfortunately, they often don’t do a good enough job in helping to prevent collisions. Sometimes light can be a negative when it comes in the form of headlight glare. This poses a direct threat to drivers’ night vision, making it difficult for them to see and perceive their surroundings accurately.
In addition to the road and other vehicles, it’s also harder for drivers to see pedestrians at night. Dimly or poorly lit crosswalks and busy city intersections can be hazardous for both drivers and pedestrians.
Chicago weather can also make nighttime visibility challenging. Fog, rain, sleet, and snow are common during Chicago nights, further limiting visibility and increasing the potential for accidents.
Many species of wildlife are nocturnal, meaning they are more active during the night. From deer to smaller mammals like raccoons and foxes, these creatures often venture onto roadways. The sudden appearance of an animal on the road may leave drivers with minimal time to react, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Drivers are More Tired at Night; Sometimes Impaired
Nighttime driving is inherently associated with fatigue, as we all naturally tend to be more tired during the later hours. Fatigue can impair a driver’s ability to stay alert, react quickly, and make sound judgments. Chicago’s many bars, restaurants, and clubs may also play a part in there being more impaired drivers on the roads at night.
Fewer Cars on the Road = Higher Speeds
Although there are fewer vehicles on the roads during the nighttime hours, some drivers may take advantage of the open roads by speeding. Higher speeds increase the severity of accidents and often make them more likely to result in serious injuries or fatalities.
City Infrastructure Has an Impact
The condition of Chicago’s streets and infrastructure can also play a role in the occurrence of nighttime accidents. Poorly maintained road and traffic lights, faded road markings, and inadequate signage can increase the risk of collisions. An experienced attorney will take all of these factors into consideration when building your case.
Call a Car Accident Attorney for Advice
If you were injured in a car accident at night, you may have many questions about what legal recourse you may have or what kind of insurance claim you are entitled to make. The experienced car accident attorneys at Stein & Shulman, LLC will review the circumstances of your accident and set out a clear analysis of your legal rights and whether an insurance claim or a potential lawsuit against the at-fault party is appropriate. Contact us today.
