How many meters to switch between high and low beams?

[DeMaddox]

Switch when 150 meters apart. Driving regulations: When meeting another vehicle at night, you should switch to low beams when the oncoming vehicle is more than 150 meters away. When meeting non-motorized vehicles on narrow roads or bridges, you should use low beams. Difference between high and low beams: The difference lies in adjusting the intensity of light based on the distance of the filament. The high beam is focused at its focal point, emitting parallel light that is more concentrated and brighter, capable of illuminating distant and high objects. The low beam is beyond its focal point (between 1 to 2 times the focal distance), emitting divergent light that can illuminate a larger area of nearby objects. Low beams are designed for close-range illumination (approximately 30~40 meters), with a wide coverage (160°) and short illumination distance, and the focus cannot be adjusted. High beams are designed for long-distance illumination, with greater distance and brightness.

[DelHenry]

When I was learning to drive, I remembered that the standard distance for switching between high and low beams is usually around 150 meters. When you see an oncoming vehicle or a car ahead, you should switch to low beams at this distance to avoid dazzling glare that could cause an accident. This rule is in place to ensure driving safety, especially at night or in foggy conditions. Vehicle speed also affects judgment—for example, when driving fast, 150 meters can be covered in the blink of an eye, so I prepare in advance. Different road environments may have slight variations; urban areas generally enforce this standard strictly, while rural areas can be slightly more flexible, but safety remains the top priority. Developing the habit of timely switching can prevent many problems and make other drivers feel more at ease on the road.

[JacksonDella]

Having driven for many years, I always switch my headlights between 150 to 200 meters. As soon as an oncoming vehicle appears, I gauge the distance and dim my lights to prevent dazzling the other driver and affecting their judgment. On highways, I'm even more cautious, preparing to switch my lights at 200 meters because the high speed means distances close rapidly. In poor weather conditions like rain or fog, I reduce the switching distance to within 150 meters. Remembering these experiences has made my driving smoother and shows more respect for other road users. Headlight adjustment is not just about rules; it's also about driving etiquette, something every driver should value.

[Dante]

In urban road conditions, I maintain a distance of approximately 150 meters when switching between high and low beams. Due to streetlight interference, it might be based on intuition, but regulations require this standard distance to avoid glare conflicts. In heavy city traffic, timely switching can reduce accident risks, such as in narrow streets or intersections, where changing lights within 100 meters is common practice. When driving at slower speeds, it's even more important to prepare early. Developing this habit makes driving more effortless and safer.