Driving on American roads is more challenging than ever, no matter how cautious you are behind the wheel. Arkansas, with its 16,500 miles of roadway, has the twelfth longest highway system in the country. But it isn’t great from a safety perspective as more than 150 people had already died in road accidents in the first quarter of 2023.
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Fayetteville has a grim situation when it comes to road safety. A multi-vehicle crash last week resulted in the death of a resident. Such accidents are common in and around the city. The city council is also planning to implement a “Vision Zero” plan to curb accidents and fatalities.
Besides these scary facts and statistics, high congestion and unsafe driving in the state are problematic. Late-night driving on Arkansas highways requires utmost caution because the risk of crashes is high after dark.
Here are a few actionable tips to stay safe during late-night drives on Arkansas highways:
Stick With Speed Limits
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics, one-third of road accidents occur due to speeding. High speed is an even bigger risk during night-time driving because of lower visibility and shorter reaction time.
Consider a hypothetical situation where your vehicle’s headlights illuminate 160 feet ahead. That isn’t good enough because, even at a slow speed of 40 mph, you must have at least 190 feet to halt.
The best solution is to adjust your speed according to the visibility factors. The speed limit on many Arkansas highways is 75 mph, but slower is better when the visibility is poor. Consider the lighting on the roads, traffic, and weather to decide the optimal speed. Plan your route and expected timelines accordingly to avoid rushing.
Beware of Negligent Drivers
Statistics indicate that 98% of road accidents occur due to human error. Unfortunately, many of these happen to the best drivers, only because another driver is negligent or distracted. The problem persists in all American states.
Traffic fatalities in Arkansas increased 24.9% in 2020, the third-highest increase in the country. Fayetteville contributed significantly to the accident statistics.
Being aware of negligent drivers and keeping a distance from them can be life-saving during night driving. You may still be at risk on Fayetteville roads and highways because they are inherently dangerous. Knowing your legal rights and seeking compensation with the help of a Fayetteville car accident attorney is the best bet.
According to Keith Law Group, hiring a local lawyer is a wise move because they know the state-specific laws inside out. Moreover, they can guide victims regarding the relevant statute of limitations and help them secure maximum compensation.
Test Your Car Lights
A well-maintained vehicle is a savior for people who frequently drive at night and plan long road trips. You should test and use your car lights to ensure proper visibility. The last thing you want is to hit a vehicle, barrier, or wild animal on the highway only because you can’t spot them in the dark.
Check high beams, low beams, turn signals, brake lights, and daytime running lights before embarking on the ride. Your headlights and tail lights do more than help you keep a close eye on the road. They also make your vehicle visible to other drivers on the road. Use them during the day in adverse weather conditions such as rain, hail, and snow.
Steer Clear of Drunk and Distracted Driving
Drunk and distracted driving can be fatal, regardless of the time and location. A study shows that 34% of fatal car crashes in Arkansas are linked to alcohol.
Conversely, another survey states that Arkansas is among the top three states for least distracted drivers. While it is a good thing, mishaps may still happen when drivers test or talk while behind the wheel.
Commit to steering clear of these habits, whether driving during the day or after dark. Accidents due to drinking and distractions can land you in a problem with the law. You may be on the wrong side of the law due to negligent driving. The worst part is that you may sustain injuries besides hurting others.
Wrapping Up
A new report released in 2022 states that Arkansas roads are the second-most dangerous in the US. Night-time driving compounds the risks for drivers, but caution and adherence to the rules can go a long way in accident prevention.
You should understand the specific risks of night driving and stick with these guidelines and rules to stay safe on the road. Cultivating defensive driving habits should be your top priority, no matter how safe the roads are.
