Is it allowed to use high beams on highways?
3 Answers
High beams can be used on highways under certain conditions. Here is an introduction to lighting usage during high-speed driving: When high beams can be used: Under appropriate conditions, high beams must be used when driving on highways at night. Especially when maintaining sufficient following distance or when road conditions are poor, using high beams can ensure driving safety. When high beams should not be used: When following another vehicle. To avoid affecting the driver ahead, turn off high beams when maintaining a safe following distance. When preparing to overtake. Switch to low beams and turn on turn signals to clearly communicate your intention to overtake; after completing the overtaking maneuver, you may switch back to high beams. When entering toll stations or service areas. Turn off high beams and reduce speed. When passing through ramp intersections. Turn off high beams (as continuous curves prohibit high beam usage) and slow down.
Using high beams on highways is actually acceptable, but it depends on the situation. As someone who drives frequently, I'm familiar with highway driving rules. High beams can help identify distant road signs and obstacles when the road is clear and lighting is insufficient, significantly improving nighttime driving safety. However, they must never be abused. If there are vehicles ahead—whether traveling in the same or opposite direction—you must immediately switch to low beams, as the intense light can reflect through rearview mirrors, impairing or distracting other drivers and potentially causing collisions. On highways, speeds are high, and even a small mistake can lead to serious accidents. I once experienced a close call when I failed to notice an oncoming car while using high beams. Now, I constantly monitor surrounding traffic and make it a habit to switch beams appropriately. Remember: safety first. This isn’t just a legal requirement but also basic driving ethics.
As a seasoned driver who often takes my family on highways, I must remind everyone to use high beams cautiously. High beams are indeed allowed on highways, especially on stretches with sparse traffic and no streetlights, as they can widen your field of vision. However, it's crucial to turn them off when there's a vehicle ahead or an oncoming car to avoid glare that could distract others. During one family trip, I kept my high beams on for too long, causing the driver in front to slow down due to the glare, nearly resulting in a rear-end collision. Since then, I've made it a point to educate my family about not prioritizing convenience over safety. Additionally, using high beams in rain or fog can intensify light reflection, increasing risks. In short, staying vigilant and timely switching between lights is key to ensuring everyone arrives home safely.