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There are a many factors that play a part in the high nighttime accident rate in the Des Moines Metro area. Things like falling asleep while driving and an even higher rate of impaired driving are main causes for accidents and without a doubt, visibility is a major contributor. Let's talk about visibility…

Studies show that 90% of our driving decisions are based on what we see. Nighttime driving has the effect of reducing 20/20 vision to the equivalent of 20/50 vision. Which means what you could see clearly at 50 feet in daylight can't be seen until you are just 20 feet away at night.

Avoiding an accident is dependent on response time. Response time worsens significantly in low light conditions. One thing we can do to improve visibility is to make sure our headlights are as bright as they can possibly be.

Headlamps dim over time, they dim so gradually that you may not even notice it. It is recommended to replace your standard or halogen headlight bulbs once a year. Fall time being the best time to do this with increased nighttime driving during the winter months.

If your vehicle has standard headlamps, consider upgrading to halogen lamps or even high intensity discharge, HID, headlamps. They will make a big difference. Some vehicles come with HID headlamps and they should last for the life of your vehicle. They are very bright and are clearly the best option for nighttime driving. Depending on your vehicle, you may be able to upgrade, so ask one of our knowledgeable service advisors at Hilltop Tire Service about what options are available for your car.

It is also important to keep your windshield clean and streak free when driving at night. Make sure you have plenty of washer fluid and that your windshield wipers are in good working order. It is recommended to replace your wiper blades twice a year – in the spring and fall.

To make sure your headlights are giving you the best visibility your windshield wipers are in perfect order, visit us at Hilltop Tire Service, located downtown, in Johnston and Des Moines northeast side. Or give us a call to make an appointment: 515.262.5641. See you soon!