Driving at night can be challenging due to reduced visibility and increased risks on the road. However, you and your teen can safely navigate the darkness with the right strategies and tools. In this article, you'll find helpful tips for driving at night and how Life360 features can improve your nighttime driving experience. When you're done, share the article with your teen.

1. Ensure proper vehicle maintenance  

For clear visibility, ensure that your headlights, taillights and signals work properly; replace burnt-out bulbs; and keep your windshield clean. 

2. Reduce glare 

Keep your windshield clean and avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights. Instead, focus on the right edge of the road to help your eyes adjust to oncoming headlights and reduce glare.  

3. Limit nighttime driving 

Driving in darkness may be unavoidable, but reducing time on the road at night can help minimize risks. When possible, plan trips to avoid late-night travel, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Setting boundaries around when and where teens drive at night can also enhance safety. 

4. Use an app to encourage safe driving 

Apps like Life360 can help improve your family’s driving habits, increase confidence and accountability and improve nighttime driving safety—especially features like speed and phone usage monitoring, ETA tracking and location notifications. As part of PURE's Teen Driver program, we are offering eligible members a complimentary two-year Gold subscription to Life360.

1. Minimize distractions  

Avoid distractions like using your phone, adjusting the radio or eating while driving at night. Always stay focused on the road and be alert for possible dangers. 

2. Watch for wildlife  

Be cautious of wildlife crossing the road, especially in rural or wooded areas. Look for reflective eyes on the roadside and reduce your speed if you spot any animals nearby. 

3. Drive defensively

Slow down and increase your following distance—less visibility means you’ll need more time to see and respond to what’s ahead.

4. Adjust your speed  

Reduce your speed when driving at night, especially in areas with poor lighting or unfamiliar roads. Driving slower allows extra time to respond to surprises and lowers the chance of crashes. 

5. Use high beams wisely  

High beams can improve visibility in dark conditions, but be mindful of other drivers. Switch to low beams when approaching oncoming traffic or following other vehicles to prevent blinding other drivers. 

6. Stay alert and rested  

Fatigue can impair your reaction time and decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Get plenty of rest before embarking on a nighttime drive and take breaks if you start feeling drowsy.