North Carolina DMV Practice Test

What can you do to improve visibility while walking at night?

1. Walk as close to the edge of the road as possible

2. Wear reflective clothing

3. Carry an umbrella

4. Walk in empty parking lots

The correct answer is: Wear reflective clothing

Wearing reflective clothing is an effective way to improve visibility while walking at night because it ensures that you are more easily seen by drivers and others in low-light conditions. Reflective materials reflect light back toward its source, making it much easier for motorists to notice pedestrians even from a distance. This is especially important in situations where visibility is poor, such as on dark roads or in urban areas with limited street lighting. Other options, while they may have some associated benefits, don't significantly enhance safety in the same way reflective clothing does. For example, walking close to the edge of the road can actually increase the risk of being overlooked by drivers. Carrying an umbrella may provide some personal protection against the elements but does not aid visibility. Walking in empty parking lots, although potentially safer in terms of vehicle traffic, doesn't address the issue of being seen if those areas are not well lit. Overall, wearing reflective clothing is a proactive measure to enhance a pedestrian's visibility effectively, thus increasing safety during nighttime walks.