Driving Safely at Night: Top Tips From Optometrists
If you’re experiencing reduced vision in low light, a common problem in older people, you may find it difficult to see clearly while you’re driving at nighttime hours. Conditions like cataracts, nyctalopia and glaucoma are common reasons that make it strenuous to see well without low-vision aids or other treatments. In this post, a trusted eye doctor shares tips for safer driving at night.
- Visit an eye care professional at least once every two years. If you have a pre-existing eye condition, do it more frequently. Inform your doctor about any issues you may be experiencing on the road so that you can receive a comprehensive eye examination that involves the assessment of your visual field or contrast sensitivity.
- Wear night driving glasses. Your doctor may prescribe specialized night driving glasses with an anti-reflective coating that helps sharpen vision, reduce glare and see better on the road from sunset to sunrise. According to an optometrist, lenses built with wavefront diagnostic technology can also reduce starbursts, halos, and other visual distractions.
- Allow extra time for driving. If your symptoms are quite severe, make sure to plan for additional time when driving, or even better, don’t drive at all, especially if you feel fatigued or stressed.
- Be on the defensive. When having visual difficulties while driving, stay alert and observant. It is a smart idea to leave space—the length of at least two vehicles—between your car and the car in front of you.
- Keep your car in good condition. Keep your windows and windshield wipers clean and headlights aligned. Drive a car with features that make driving safer and comfortable. These include power brakes, automatic transmission and large-sized mirrors. If you have leg problems, consider hand controls for your gas pedal.
You can count on Joel H McGahen, OD for high-quality eye care services, including vision correction, eyeglasses and contact lenses prescription, and eye diseases treatment. Call us at (717) 470-7496 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment. We serve patients in and around Chambersburg, PA.