Use low beams in fog, snow, or heavy rain . Light from high beams will reflect back and cause glare. Remember, it is just as important to BE SEEN by other drivers as it is for YOU to see THEM.
When should you use low beam headlights?
You must use low-beam lights if you are within 200-300 ft of the vehicle you are following . Consult your state’s Drivers Handbook for details. If an approaching car is using its high-beams, don’t look directly into the oncoming headlights—look toward the right edge of your lane.
What are 3 conditions you need to use your headlights?
Headlights are required 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise , during fog, smoke, or rain and when visibility is less than 200 feet. In some states, headlights are required anytime the vehicle’s windshield wipers are on in continuous use. This indicates the presence of rain, sleet, snow.
Why do you drive with low beams in fog?
As to the effects of weather, keep in mind that in rain, fog, or snow, low-beams often provide better visibility . That’s because high-beams are aimed higher, plus their brighter light bounces off the fog, raindrops, or snowflakes suspended in the air as if they were millions of tiny mirrors.
Under what driving conditions should you use your low beams?
Use your low beams when you come within 500 feet (about one block) of an oncoming vehicle . Also use your low beams when following another vehicle within 300 feet. Slow down when nearing a curve if you are driving the maximum posted speed limit.
What should you do if an oncoming driver fails to use low beam headlights?
If an oncoming driver fails to use the low beam headlights after you switch to your low beam headlights, you should slow down and glance at the right edge of the roadway . If the oncoming driver at night fails to use the low beam headlights, you can attempt to reduce glare by frequently looking ahead with quick glances.
How far should low beams shine?
Q: How Far Should Your Headlights Shine While on Low Beam? A: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the distance illuminated by low beam headlights is about 160 feet .
Why would low beam headlights not work?
The likely cause is a fuse, headlight relay, headlight switch, dimmer switch or a wiring fault. About the only cause that is an easy fix is a blown fuse . Consult your owner’s manual to locate the main fuse for the headlight circuit and replace that fuse with one having the same amp rating.
Do you use low beams at night?
Low beam headlights / dipped headlights
Low beams are essential when driving at night , but they have also been proved to improve visibility and safety when used during the day, for example during adverse weather (rain, snow, sleet or fog) or just after sunrise and just before sunset.
Is low beam lights the same as headlights?
Low Beam Headlights
Unlike high beam headlights, these point down at an angle to better illuminate the road. That’s why low beams are referred to as “ dipped beam” headlights in some parts of the world. It also means you can safely use your low beams even in the middle of traffic.
Can you drive with one headlight?
Can you drive with one headlight out in New South Wales? ... If you drive with one headlight at night, you’re also at risk of getting pulled over by the police and hit with a defect notice – and if you drive in breach of a minor notice, you’re looking at a $330 fine and one demerit point.
How bright can headlights be legally?
Almost all industrialised nations have laws regarding the colour and brightness of headlights. Typically, headlights are required to be white or yellow, and must be bright enough to allow drivers to see approximately 100 metres ahead without blinding other drivers.
When should I turn my high beams on?
- Another vehicle is within 200 feet and approaching you from the opposite direction.
- You are less than 200 feet behind another vehicle.
- Heavy rain, fog, or snow are present.
Why Low beams are more useful in fog than high beams?
That means high beams reach twice as far as your low beams. Yet, low beams are more ideal for city driving , where the roads are lit up with streetlights and there are other drivers on the road. This is because low beams are directed sideward or downward, with the light not directed in the eyes of oncoming drivers.
Can I use fog lights as headlights?
Fog lights must be used like your high-beams: turned off when within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle and within 350 feet when following another vehicle. ... Fog lights must have a separate switch from regular headlights. Fog lights may not be used instead of headlights .
When lights are required drivers must switch from high beam lights to low beams when following another vehicle?
When using your high beams, remember to switch to low beams when you’re within 150 metres of an oncoming vehicle . You should also use this safety measure when following behind another car.
