When driving at night, which actions should you take?

• A. Turn off headlights to save energy.
• B. Use hazard lights while driving.
• C. Keep your headlights off and drive slowly.
• D. Use headlights, reduce speed, and increase following distance.

Answer: (D)

When you’re driving at night, visibility is reduced and your reaction time is longer. Turning on your headlights helps you see the road and makes you visible to others, which is essential for safe driving after dark. Slowing down compensates for the limited visibility and the longer distance you may need to stop. Increasing the following distance gives you extra time to react if the vehicle in front slows suddenly or if a pedestrian, animal, or other hazard appears in your path. Hazard lights are not used for normal night driving and can confuse other drivers, so they’re not appropriate for regular driving. Driving with headlights off is dangerous because you’re less able to see the road and others are less able to see you. So, use headlights, reduce your speed, and increase the distance to the vehicle ahead.