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Studies show that daytime headlights reduce accidents

On Behalf of | Sep 13, 2017 | Car Accidents

The results of numerous studies indicate that Ohio daytime drivers might want to keep their headlights on even on sunny days. Driving with headlights on during the day has been shown to reduce accidents by up to 10 percent. More importantly, the types of accidents daytime headlights are shown to reduce are the types that can lead to the most serious injuries to motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Studies have been conducted to determine the effect of using headlights while driving during daylight hours. Results have shown a reduction by 5.7 percent of two-car collisions, and more significant reductions in pedestrian and motorcycle accidents involving other vehicles. Daytime headlight usage makes it easier for pedestrians and motorcycle operators to see cars. Studies show a reduction in pedestrian accidents by 12 percent when daytime vehicle headlights are on. The reduction for motorcycle accidents is even more dramatic: 23 percent for motorcycle accidents involving vehicles coming from the other direction.

Some auto manufacturers produce cars with daytime running lights, but most American cars still do not have them. There is no U.S. law requiring daytime or daylight headlights, but some European countries have implemented such laws. Denmark has seen a reduction in left-turn-related car accidents of more than 37 percent since passing a daytime running lights law, as well as an overall reduction in multiple vehicle accidents. The cost of running headlights during the day is not significant, according to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The study found that the cost to the average driver would be from $3 to $40 a year.

When car accidents happen, insurance companies have to pay when a policy owner files a legitimate claim. But these companies will almost always use every means available to them to keep the amount they pay as low as possible. People who have been injured in a car accident caused by the negligence of another driver could benefit from having an attorney trying to maximize a settlement.

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