With winter setting in across the UK, night time comes earlier now that the clocks have gone back. Book Theory Test Today provides you with a definitive guide to driving at night as the road landscape changes and a whole host of new hazards emerge for young drivers to deal with.
If you’re currently learning to drive, with plans to take your UK driving theory test and practical test, you will be exposed to night time driving as part of your driving lessons, especially if you’re learning to drive in the winter months.
However, it is important to prepare for night time driving in order to adapt your driving style and to stay safe on Britain’s roads after dark.
Let There Be Light
Driving theory will tell you that switching your lights on for night time driving should become part of your ‘cockpit drill’. Your headlights should be set to the ‘dipped’ setting predominantly, but in cases where there is no constant flow of oncoming traffic, on a country road for example, you can switch the light settings to full beam.
But, remember to switch them back should you see an oncoming vehicle, or when approaching a vehicle travelling in the same direction, as this will prevent dazzling fellow motorists.
As part of driving theory, your driving instructor will inform you of how to control your headlights when driving at night.
Watch Your Speed
The speed at which you drive at night will be determined by the type of road you’re on and the weather conditions at the time of your journey or driving lesson. Driving theory will tell you that when driving at night visibility is reduced. When driving in built up areas there will be an element of light from street lighting etc. However, driving on a country road will be completely different as street lighting is sparse.
Speed should be kept appropriate to the conditions and within the speed limits specified on road signs. Give yourself ample stopping time and maintain safe stopping distances in order to stay safe.
Anticipating Hazards
Night driving presents a different set of challenges compared to driving in the day. For instance, driving on rural roads at night means that you could encounter animals crossing the roadway. Be aware and be extra vigilant, especially on rural roads, when it comes to potential hazards.
There are plenty of driving theory guides available containing vital information on how to drive a vehicle on rural roads.
In built up areas, as visibility is reduced, be wary of pedestrians especially those wearing dark clothing. Maintain a reasonable speed and monitor the pavements for any sign that an individual is about to cross the road in front of you.
Consider Night Time Driving Lessons
If you’re apprehensive about driving at night, speak to your driving instructor or, if you’re a motorist who has recently passed a driving exam ask someone to accompany you when driving at night for the first time.
The best way to become comfortable with night time driving is to drive at night. If you’re learning to drive, many driving instructors offer night time lessons in order to prepare learner motorists for the experience of driving at night.
Upon completing a UK driving theory test and passing the practical driving exam, you can take an advanced driving course to further improve your night time driving skills.
Book Your Theory Test Today offers an intermediary service assisting clients with booking a UK driving theory test, or practical test, at test centres across the nation. The service also supplies resources to help you prepare for your driving theory test – Ready to take your theory test? Book your theory test today…
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