car driving

[tigerlily11]

I have been driving for four years now and have noticed something weird.
When driving in day light 60 miles an hour really dosen't seem that fast but when I drive at night 60 miles an hour seems like 75 miles an hour. Speed seems faster at night.
Does any one know why this is.
Thanks for your time.

[Hugh Spencer]

I think it is to do with the ability of your eyes to see far enough ahead to warn the brain, coordination between the eyes and the brain.

[heathfield]

During the day, you see more distant things appearing to approach slowly, and you can take them into account in plenty of time. At night your vision is concentrated on things only a short distance ahead, giving you less time to react, and thus making you think you're going faster.

[kwicky]

Maybe they should reduce the speed limit at night?

[tigerlily11]

Wow what a strange thing the brain is.
I know thats the reason things go into slowmo when you have a crash because the brain is taking in everything thats happening but I didn't think it would be that way in a relitivly safe situation.
I never considered that might the reason.
Thanks for that.

[heathfield]

Not a bad idea, Kwicky. At 70mph, with dipped headlights, how many people are able to stop within the illuminated distance?