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Driving at night presents different challenges than driving during the day.  Our vision is limited at night and it is harder to see hazards as quickly as in daylight. 

The following are some guidelines to assist you driving at night:

Rest before your trip:  Make sure you are rested and alert.  Delay your trip if you are tired.  It is dangerous to drive tired for you and other drivers on the road.

Plan your route:  Check for closures and constructions.  Have a map available especially if traveling in unfamiliar roads.  If you need to check the map, make sure to pull over on the side of the road (when it is safe to do so) and turn your emergency flasher on.

Inspect your vehicle:   Do a complete check of your vehicle before driving and make sure that everything is working.  Pay close attention to your turn signal and headlights.

Use your headlights:  Your main source of lights at night is your headlights.  Make sure that they are clean and working properly.

Avoid blinding other drivers:  Glare from your headlights can cause problems for drivers coming towards you.  Use your high beams only when necessary.

Keep all windows and headlights clean:  Dirty windows can increase glare, making it difficult to see.  The same goes for having dirty headlights.  It decreases your visibility and it makes it hard for others to see you.

Drive according to speed limit:  It is more dangerous to drive fast after dark because of reduced visibility.  You may not have enough time to see something dangerous on the road ahead.

Be Safe:  Lock your doors at all time.  It is also important to let a family member or a friend know your destination especially if you are driving alone.

Sources:

http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/rules_of_the_road/rr_chap10.html
http://www.lowestpricetrafficschool.com/handbooks/cdl/en/2/11
http://roadrules.ca/?cat=69
 http://www.driveandstayalive.com/info%20section/news/individual%20news%20articles/x_040525_safe-night-driving-tips.htm