1. Check your headlights
Peter Kay would appreciate our first tip - put your lights on! Ha! Don't worry, that's not the tip, but the topic is indeed headlights. First and foremost, it's very important to check your headlights on a regular basis. Make sure your side, dipped and main lights function correctly. The bulbs and headlight units need to be nice and clean to work properly and should be aligned correctly (pointing down slightly) to avoid blinding oncoming traffic.
You can take a look at our step-by-step guide on how to align your headlights here.
2. It's time to upgrade
Back on the subject of headlights, there's a whole host of upgrade headlight bulbs available for your car. These upgrades will instantly transform your night time driving experience by giving you much more light on the road. There are plenty of candidates that are perfect for this job. Philips RacingVision, OSRAM Night Breaker Laser, GE Megalight Ultra +130, PIAA Hyper Arros, Philips X-treme Vision +130 and OSRAM Night Breaker Unlimited all offer more light on the road, as well as a longer light beam.
If you're looking for a xenon HID bulb that offers more light on the road, take a look at OSRAM Xenarc Night Breaker Unlimited and Philips Xenon X-treme Vision gen2. You'll be able to spot hazards quicker and easier with these ranges, shortening your reaction time.
Shop all Maximum Performance bulbs here.
3. Take it easy
OK, this one is going to sound really obvious, but I know it's something that's not always put into practice. Slow down and take your time on the road. Give yourself the chance to spot hazards and read road signs. The general rule of thumb is that you should be able to stop within the illuminated area ahead produced by your headlights.
4. Catch some z's
Driving in the dark makes you feel tired anyway, so if you're tired before you even get in your car it's not going to do you any favours. If you do face a long drive in the dark, make sure you stop at the services the moment you start to feel tired.
Grab a coffee, stretch your legs, take a nap - just don't get back on the road until you feel alert again. It's just not worth the risk.
5. Don't drink and drive
It's the message we've all heard time and time again but it's so important - just don't drink and drive. Even one alcoholic drink can make you feel sleepy, so just be careful when you're at that party.
Also, be aware of driving the morning after too. It's so easy to think you're fit to drive, when in reality you may still be over the limit. Here's a handy fact for you: it takes an hour for each unit of alcohol consumed to leave your system. Bear this in mind before you get behind the wheel the morning after a heavy drinking session.
Whatever you do, take care of yourself, drive safely and have fun!
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