(NAPSI)—Car makers say there may be a simple solution for increasing highway safety after dark—more light.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the majority of car accidents in the U.S. occur at night (1,864 in 1999 alone).

Some of these crashes could be avoided if drivers used headlights that increased their field of vision and enhanced down-road visibility.

To improve driving safety, a number of motorists now use high intensity discharge (HID) headlights and auxiliary lighting systems. HID headlights radiate a crisp, bright light that stimulates reflective paints used in road markers and signs, making them easier to see at night.

In addition, the increased light output (about three times that of a standard halogen headlight) illuminates a wide area in front of a vehicle, which can improve visibility and safety without disturbing the vision of other drivers.

The headlights last longer than most halogen headlamps and are more energy efficient.

The good news is that HID headlights—formerly available only on high priced automobiles—have become more accessible and affordable for the general public.

Drivers can now buy upgrade kits that can supplement or replace their autos’ existing lighting systems.

For example, Sylvania offers a Xenarc auxiliary lighting kit, designed to complement low beam headlights, that fits most vehicles. The kit comes with the necessary cables and attachments for installation. The product gives drivers the chance to enhance their headlights with the benefits of HID.

“Proper lighting is one of the most basic and important safety features an auto can have,” explains Jim Jelin, Director of Sales and Marketing, Sylvania Automotive Lighting. “Our upgrade kit can help drivers of all types of cars—not just luxury automobiles—be safer at night and other times when visibility is poor.”

For more information, visit www.sylvania.com.

High intensity discharge headlights can illuminate a larger field of vision for a driver, helping to make night travel safer.