How Far Should You Switch to Low Beam When Meeting Another Vehicle at Night?
3 Answers
When meeting another vehicle at night, you should switch to low beam at a distance of 150 meters or more. Below are the relevant details: Legal Regulations: Article 48 of the 'Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China' states: On roads without central barriers or center lines, when meeting another vehicle at night, you should switch to low beam at a distance of 150 meters or more from the oncoming vehicle. When meeting non-motorized vehicles on narrow roads or bridges, if the low beam still causes glare when the two vehicles are about 50 meters apart, you should turn off the low beam and use parking lights to ensure safety. Speed: Slow down and drive on the right side, maintaining a necessary safe distance from other vehicles and pedestrians. Obstacles: On roads with obstacles, the vehicle on the unobstructed side has the right of way. However, if the obstructed side has already entered the obstacle section while the unobstructed side has not, the obstructed side has the right of way. Slopes: On narrow slopes, the vehicle going uphill has the right of way. However, if the downhill vehicle is already halfway while the uphill vehicle has not started climbing, the downhill vehicle has the right of way. Mountain Roads: On narrow mountain roads, the vehicle not next to the mountain has the right of way.
After driving at night for so many years, I've gained considerable experience in switching to low beams when meeting oncoming traffic. Remember to switch when the distance is about 150 meters, because when you see the other car's headlights flicker, you should quickly switch to low beams. Don't wait until you're too close—bright lights can dazzle the other driver and easily cause accidents. I've had a few close calls myself, which were quite frightening. Be especially cautious during rainy or foggy conditions; estimate the distance further, switching around 200 meters in advance. While high beams are convenient for yourself, you must learn to restrain when meeting oncoming traffic—safety comes first. Once you develop this habit, your driving becomes steadier, and it shows respect for other drivers.
As a new driver who just got my license, my instructor repeatedly emphasized switching to low beams during nighttime encounters. The teacher said the optimal distance is about 150 meters. In practice, I switch to low beams as soon as I see the opposing vehicle's headlights to avoid dazzling them. Switching too late not only endangers others but may also result in fines. During practice, I sometimes forgot, but later got used to setting phone reminders. The key is to internalize this rule to avoid dangerous situations while driving. On highways or rural roads with higher speeds, switching lights 150 meters in advance is more prudent.
