When driving at night, what is the best technique to identify road bumps?

Using the taillights of the vehicle ahead of you is an effective technique when driving at night to help identify road bumps. The glow of the taillights can provide a visual reference point, allowing you to gauge the road’s surface and any potential irregularities. As the following vehicle hits bumps or dips in the road, you may notice a change in the brightness or motion of the taillights, which can alert you to similar conditions ahead.

While driving where there are street lights may seem like a safe option, it limits your driving conditions to only well-lit areas, which is not always practical or possible. Utilizing high beams can illuminate the road farther ahead, but they may also cause glare for oncoming drivers and may not highlight minor bumps unless you are very close. Scanning the road often is an important habit for any driver, but in low-light conditions, relying on the visible indicators, like taillights, can provide critical information about the road conditions ahead, enhancing your awareness and response to unexpected bumps.