Are Accidents at Dawn or Dusk More Likely in The Bay City Area?

Attorney Grant Travis | Travis Law Firm | Personal Injury Attorney, DUI Defense Attorney, Criminal Defense Attorney | Serving Erie, Crawford, Warren & all of Northwestern PA | Call the Travis Law Firm at 814-277-2222 today!

Accidents throughout Erie are possible at any moment given the amount of traffic on our roads. Erie is the fourth largest city in Pennsylvania, so heavy traffic is to be expected. With heavy traffic also comes an increase in traffic accidents. However, are traffic accidents more common during certain times of the day?

The Dangers of Driving at Dawn and Dusk

Dawn and dusk are particularly dangerous times to drive for several reasons. At dawn, the sun coming up can cause a glare that temporarily blinds a driver. On the other hand, dusk brings less light, making it more difficult for drivers to see oncoming traffic and other obstacles. Distracted drivers rushing to get to work or to get home from work and drowsy drivers also add to the dangers of driving at dusk or dawn.

Safety Tips for Driving at Dusk or Dawn

You may not be able to avoid all traffic accidents, but there are tips that can help reduce the risk of being involved in a traffic accident. The following tips from AAA and other sources may help you avoid a serious traffic accident.

  • Reduce your speed. Speed reduces your reaction time and increases the time it takes for you to stop to avoid a collision.
  • Only wear sunglasses at dawn or dusk when the sunlight is directly in your eyes. You may want to consider special lenses if you need to wear prescription glasses to reduce glare from the sun.
  • Turn on your low beam headlights so other drivers can see your vehicle.
  • If you are drowsy, do not get behind the wheel. Learn the signs of drowsy driving to avoid causing a drowsy driving accident.
  • Use your sun visor to reduce glare.
  • If visibility is reduced, use lane markers to help you avoid drifting into another lane.
  • Turning down your dashboard lights can help you see lights on the road better.
  • Avoid distractions, such as cell phones, adjusting vehicle controls, eating, and grooming.
  • Clean your vehicle’s windshield and headlights to help increase visibility.

Filing a Claim for Car Accidents During Dawn or Dusk

No matter how safe you are behind the wheel or how many steps you take to reduce the risk of being in an accident, you may still be injured by a negligent driver. If you are injured, you need to take steps to protect your legal rights.

Never admit fault for the accident or apologize for the accident. Until all factors are reviewed, you cannot be sure of fault. If possible, take pictures of the accident scene before the vehicles are moved. Make sure that you see a doctor to diagnose your injuries as soon as possible. An insurance company often uses a delay in medical treatment as an excuse to deny a valid accident claim.

As soon as possible, consult an Erie car accident to discuss your legal rights and your options to recover compensation for your claim. In most cases, it is best to seek legal counsel before talking to an insurance adjuster. The adjuster wants to settle your claim for as little as possible.  An attorney has your best interest, not the best interest of the insurance provider, at heart when giving you advice.

Contact an Erie Car Accident Attorney for More Information

For your free consultation with an Erie car accident attorney, call The Travis Law Firm at (800) 401-2066.