Is it permissible to use high beams on highways?
4 Answers
High beams can be used on highways. When driving on highways, due to high speeds, absence of streetlights, and poor visibility, failure to use high beams may prevent timely and clear observation of road conditions ahead, potentially leading to traffic accidents. High beams adjust the intensity of light based on the distance of the filament. The light from high beams is emitted parallel from their focal point, making it more concentrated and brighter, capable of illuminating distant and high objects. The hazards of indiscriminate use of high beams include: 1. Creating visual blind spots; 2. Causing accidents; 3. Leading to driver errors. Measures to counteract indiscriminate use of high beams include: 1. Adjusting the rearview mirror direction; 2. Applying the brakes intermittently; 3. Installing anti-glare rearview mirrors.
I haven’t been driving for long, and I’m quite mindful about using high beams on highways. Generally speaking, it’s allowed, but you need to adjust flexibly: you can use them on dark, open stretches to see farther ahead and avoid hitting obstacles. However, if there’s a car ahead or oncoming traffic, you must immediately switch back to low beams—otherwise, blinding others is dangerous and could cause accidents. When driving at night on highways, I often use them by first turning on the high beams and then keeping an eye on the lighting conditions to switch as needed. Additionally, checking your headlight status is crucial to ensure the bulbs aren’t burnt out or there are no wiring issues. Safety first is the golden rule of driving—regulations support it but require self-discipline. In rainy or foggy conditions, it’s even more complicated, as high beams reflecting back can worsen visibility, so stay extra observant of your surroundings. Regular headlight maintenance helps prevent malfunctions, and after adopting these habits, I feel much more at ease.
Having driven on highways for so many years, using high beams is indeed very useful. Turning on high beams in dimly lit areas can increase visibility distance, allowing you to spot potholes or animals earlier. However, it's important to follow the rules: if there's a car in front of you or an oncoming vehicle, don't hesitate to switch to low beams—highway speeds are too fast, and even a brief flash of high beams can dazzle others and cause accidents. I often remind myself on the road to constantly monitor traffic changes and adjust the lights according to road conditions. Night driving requires extra caution: using high beams is safer when traffic is sparse, but turning them off is wiser when there are more vehicles. In terms of maintenance, ensure the headlight circuit is functioning properly to avoid unexpected shutdowns due to battery issues. Overall, proper use of high beams enhances safety, so don’t neglect the details out of laziness.
Using high beams on highways is acceptable, but requires discretion. It's fine to turn them on in poorly lit remote sections to improve long-distance visibility; however, immediately switch back to low beams when there's a vehicle ahead or oncoming traffic to avoid dazzling accidents. Stay alert to signals while driving - if another driver flashes their lights, respond promptly. Safety always comes first, and regulations require flexible light control. I also make it a habit to check light conditions, ensuring fuses aren't blown and wiring isn't aged, which gives more confidence during highway driving.
