I've never driven with HIDs before so can't input on the visibility aspect. I was told that they do draw significantly more current than the stock lights so make sure your electrical system can handle the added load or that they provide a relay set up that doesn't put the load on your existing wiring harness.

This won't help with driving but may help otherwise. Image Intensifiers are commercially available & although still pricey the quality is pretty good. One source I found by googling "pocket scope": http://www.opticsplanet.net/us-night-vision.html. There should also be mariner versions available for boating.

Your optometrist/optomologist (sp?) may be able to find out more info for you. Years ago, I helped my optometrist obtain a couple for some of his patients with retinitis pigmentosa (sp?) which causes severe night blindness. At that time, ITT had a program to sell them at cost to patients with a prescription. They used to (and may still) make them for the Army.

Sorry to take this thread so far off course but I spent 20 years on Night Vision stuff for the Army. PM me if you want more info or if I can be of any other assistance (maybe even try one before you put down the $$$).