Why is nighttime driving generally more hazardous than daytime driving?

Nighttime driving is generally more hazardous than daytime driving primarily due to reduced visibility. At night, the amount of light decreases significantly, which can impede a driver's ability to see the road, obstacles, and other vehicles clearly. This reduction in visibility can be caused by the absence of natural light, as well as factors like poor street lighting or weather conditions, such as rain, fog, or snow, which can further impair sight.

In addition to the basic challenge of seeing clearly, drivers often have less information about their surroundings at night, making it more difficult to assess speed, distance, and potential hazards. The ability to perceive depth and contrast diminishes under low-light conditions, leading to an increased risk of accidents, especially as the driver might not be able to react in time to unexpected situations.

While increased vehicle speeds, distractions, and a higher number of vehicles on the road can also influence driving safety, reduced visibility is a significant factor that distinctly differentiates nighttime driving from daytime driving, directly contributing to the increased hazard during night hours.