Is it illegal to drive with only the small lights on instead of the headlights?
2 Answers
Forgetting to turn on the headlights while driving at night will result in a 1-point deduction. Using only the small lights is also not allowed. Meaning of vehicle lights: Vehicle lights refer to the lamps on a vehicle, serving as tools for road illumination during nighttime driving and as signaling devices for various vehicle movements. Vehicle lights are generally categorized into headlights, taillights, turn signals, etc. Meaning of headlights: The combination headlights are located at the front of the vehicle, primarily serving illumination and signaling purposes. The light emitted by the headlights illuminates the road ahead, enabling the driver to drive safely at night. Combination headlights can be classified by light source into halogen lamps and xenon lamps.
I've been driving for over a decade and know this rule well. You must turn on your headlights when driving, especially at night or in foggy conditions. Parking lights are only for when the vehicle is stationary—they're too dim, and other drivers can't see you properly on the road, which greatly increases the risk of accidents. I remember traffic laws clearly state that failing to use headlights is a violation punishable by fines or penalty points. Once on the highway, I nearly rear-ended a car ahead that only had its parking lights on. When the police arrived, they issued a ticket on the spot—a 200-yuan fine. Don’t gamble with safety; it should always come first. If your car has an automatic headlight feature, it’s best to enable it—it’s convenient and safer. Regularly check your vehicle’s lights, and replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately. Don’t let minor issues lead to major disasters. Driving isn’t a joke; following the rules protects both yourself and others.
