Night-time driving tips for learner drivers

• Before you hit the road, check that all your car’s exterior lights work properly (front and rear, brake lights and high beams).
• Dirty windows can add to glare and make it more difficult to see (obviously), and dirty or foggy headlights can make them less bright. So, make sure your windows and headlights are clean (inside and out).  
• High beams are there to make it easier to see when driving on dark roads and spotting potential hazards from a distance. But they can ‘blind’ oncoming drivers, so dip your lights if you notice an approaching vehicle. 
• Check the position of your rear vision mirror and adjust to avoid the headlight glare of other cars if possible.
• Watch for car headlights at road bends and intersections to see if there is a car approaching.  
• Keep extra distance from other cars – someone in front of you may have to brake suddenly at night
• Dip your lights for oncoming cars or when following other cars.  
• Increase the distance between you and the car in front to allow for sudden braking. On rainy nights, extend the distance even more.
• Don’t do any night-time driving if you are tired.  
• Make sure your ‘L’ plates are clearly visible.
• Keep distractions in the car to a minimum – no loud music or too much chatting!

Good luck!

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