During the winter time, as we reach peak nighttime hours, drivers will spend more time navigating Massachusetts roads in the dark.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC) nighttime driving can be especially dangerous due to limited visibility. On average, drivers can only see up to 250 feet when using standard headlights during nighttime hours. When high-beams are activated, the average range is increased to 500 feet.
However, drivers ages 60 years or older may experience more challenges with eyesight, particularly due to cataracts and degenerative eye diseases. They may have a hard time seeing the road clearly, accurately judging distances, or seeing objects up close. Additionally, their eyesight may be obstructed by the headlight glare from oncoming or following vehicles.
Some roads in Massachusetts lack sufficient lighting, making it difficult for drivers to see. When the lack of lighting is combined with inclement weather such as rain, snow, sleet, and fog, driving conditions can become dangerous. Sometimes the glare from wet roads can make it difficult to see road lines and markings.
How diminished headlights are a contributing factor
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), headlights that become clouded and yellowed over time only give off about 20 percent of the light compared to brand-new headlights.
The diminished quality of headlights is caused by long periods of sunlight exposure, which breaks down the protective plastic layer. Headlights can be diminished in as little as three to five years. Unfortunately, headlights are an often-overlooked component of standard maintenance.
This can be a contributing factor to the roughly 50 percent of auto accidents that happen at night.
Driving at night, especially with diminished headlights, can be dangerous for pedestrians and bicyclists (and yes, they do come out this time of year).
Take your claim seriously from the start
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, take your claim seriously right from the start. Diminished headlight quality may not be the cause of your crash, but it may have been a contributing factor. The at-fault driver may have been driving too fast for the conditions and didn't have enough time to stop or take evasive measures. Perhaps the driver was distracted or impaired at the time of the crash.
If the at-fault driver failed to maintain his or her headlights, an experienced Massachusetts car accident attorney can use this evidence to support your claim.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone today to schedule your free, no obligation case evaluation. Our law firm will work tirelessly to make things right for you.