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Kara Hitchens
Senior Specialist, Public and Government Affairs, OH
O: (937) 224-2817
C: (937) 558-8427
khitchens@aaa-alliedgroup.com
DAYTON, OH – While this weekend’s time change brought an initial extra hour of sleep, AAA warns drivers to stay focused on the road as it gets dark earlier. Driving in the dark means drivers will need to take steps to avoid drowsy driving and pay extra attention to their headlights and vision.
“Driving in the dark is more risky for any driver,” said Kara Hitchens, AAA spokeswoman. “Reduced visibility and the prevalence of drowsy driving are just two of the dangers that drivers face on dark roads. It’s up to all of us to do our part to stay alert and be careful when driving at night.”
Don’t Be Asleep at the Wheel:
Drowsy driving is a significant traffic safety issue. By “falling back,” many think they are gaining an extra hour of sleep, but the time change can throw off sleep schedules and create drowsiness down the road. According to AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research:
As Ohioans do more driving in the dark, AAA recommends drivers:
Focus on Visibility:
Dark conditions can make it harder to see when driving, and a lack of visibility can make for unsafe driving conditions. Vehicle headlights can start showing signs of deterioration after just three years. Aged headlights reduce light output by more than 80%, which can make it difficult to see an animal or object in front of your car until it’s too late. As Ohioans do more driving in the dark, AAA recommends:
Changes in eyesight can also contribute to increased risks when driving in the dark. Research shows senior drivers need significantly more light to see than younger drivers.
“As we age, our pupils get smaller and don’t dilate as much in dark conditions, making it more difficult to see at night,” said Hitchens. “By age 60, eyes need three times as much light to see as they did at age 20. That means drivers with vision problems that may affect driving as well as senior drivers should take extra care when driving after dark.”
Those with concerns about their vision should consult an eye professional. Wear glasses if necessary and consider anti-glare coating for the lenses. Many people need glasses for night driving only, so don’t be reluctant to look into this option. Others need to minimize or avoid driving at night altogether.
For additional information and a visual on how light requirements change over time, visit AAA’s Senior Driving website.
AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 58 million members nationwide and more than three million members in Ohio. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, non-profit corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information, visit www.AAA.com.
Cindy Antrican
Public Affairs Manager, OH
O: (937) 224-2875 ext. (5502875)
C: (937) 238-6667
cantrican@AAA-AlliedGroup.com
Who's in the Driver's Seat? The Transformation of Transportation
On Tuesday, October 17, 2017, AAA and TEDx Wilmington held the first TEDx Salon dedicated to ideas worth spreading in transportation.
This event had:
View a slideshow from the event
This TEDx WilmingtonSalon was organized in partnership with AAA
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