3 reasons car accidents happen at night

On Behalf of | Oct 8, 2024 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

Some evidence suggests that car accidents are more likely at night. Young drivers are often restricted from driving after dark for this very reason. The traffic levels may be lower because far more people are simply at home, but the rate of serious accidents – and even fatal accidents – goes up. 

But what makes car accidents more likely at this time? Here are three potential reasons.

1. Drunk driving

To start with, the fatal car accident rate from impaired driving crashes is higher at night – the rate after midnight is twice the average over the rest of the day. Much of this just has to do with cultural norms and drinking traditions. People are much more likely to drink after dinner, so many of these accidents happen when people are coming home from the bar or restaurant that evening.

2. Fatigued driving

Naturally, drivers are more likely to feel fatigued at night because a lack of light triggers the production of hormones like melatonin. The darkness itself can simply make a person feel more tired and groggy. Plus, many drivers may be fatigued after a long day at work. This could cause them to nod off behind the wheel or simply have poor reaction times.

3. Lack of visibility

Finally, driving at night is always going to be inherently more dangerous simply because it’s harder to see. This may mean that it’s more likely that drivers will make mistakes like not seeing a stop sign or not spotting a pedestrian in a crosswalk. 

All it takes is one mistake to cause a serious car accident. Those who have suffered significant injuries need to know how to seek financial compensation.