New Technology Makes Nighttime Driving Safer

February 10, 2009 -- According to the National Safety Council, vehicle death rates are three times higher at night than during the day. And while car manufacturers continue to make safer cars, new technology is helping to light the way. Almost 90% of a driver's reaction depends on vision and experts say more light is always better. High Intensity Discharge lighting, also known as HID, delivers three times the light of a conventional halogen headlight. The light is also used in a more efficient way, increasing overall luminosity and improving nighttime visibility. LED lights are another alternative for safer lighting solutions. Unlike conventional light sources, LEDs reach full brightness in a few thousandths of a second; giving drivers more reaction time when the car in front of them hits the brakes. In addition to being brighter, these lights are also smaller, lighter and use less electricity. Produced for Siemens