Night & Adverse Weather Driving Flashcards

Why is driving at dusk particularly hazardous in NZ?

Answer: Reduced contrast makes it harder to see hazards, and animals are more active at dusk

Dusk is particularly dangerous because the changing light conditions reduce contrast, making it harder to see hazards. Animals such as deer, cattle, and possums are also more active at dusk, increasing the risk of wildlife strikes on rural NZ roads.

When should NZ drivers use their rear fog lights?

Answer: Only when visibility is severely reduced to less than 100 metres in fog, mist, or heavy rain

Rear fog lights in NZ should only be used when visibility is severely reduced to less than 100 metres. Using them in normal conditions is illegal as they dazzle following drivers and mask your brake lights.

How should a NZ driver manage fatigue on a long night drive?

Answer: Take regular breaks every 2 hours or before feeling tired, and stop and sleep if drowsy

The only safe remedy for driver fatigue is rest and sleep. NZ Road Code advises taking a break every 2 hours on long drives and stopping to sleep if you feel drowsy. Stimulants like coffee only temporarily mask fatigue and are not a safe solution.

If you are dazzled by the headlights of an oncoming vehicle at night on a NZ road, what should you do?

Answer: Slow down, look toward the left edge of the road, and do not look directly at the headlights

When dazzled by oncoming headlights, look toward the left edge of the road (not directly at the lights) to maintain your road position. Slow down and be prepared to stop. Flashing high beams could worsen the situation by blinding the other driver.

What does the NZ Road Code recommend regarding rest stops on a journey of more than 4 hours?

Answer: Stop for at least a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving

NZ Road Code recommends taking a proper break of at least 15 minutes every 2 hours of driving. This helps prevent driver fatigue, which is a significant contributing factor in serious road crashes in New Zealand.

What should a NZ driver do if they are caught in a severe storm with flying debris and are unable to continue?

Answer: Pull off the road to a safe location, turn on hazard lights, and stay in the vehicle away from trees

In a severe storm, pull off the road as safely as possible, turn on hazard lights, and remain in your vehicle (which offers structural protection). Avoid stopping near trees or power lines. Underpasses can have wind tunnel effects and are not safer.