For me personally I think it is much safer riding at night than during the daytime here in So Cal.. Last night I rode around 10pm.. I was passed by 15 cars total in a 23 mile ride.. I have specific routes that are fairly well lit but I ride with 2 -p7 lights which put out a combined 1000+ lumens of light. I normally only need 1 of them on, but on some dark sections or if I ride through a park I like, I will put both lights on just in case rabbits or other critters are out in the road..
I have been riding at night for 20+ years, it takes some getting used to but once you get the right equipment, it is a very pleasurable experience..