Should You Use High Beams or Low Beams When Driving on the Highway at Night?
2 Answers
When driving on the highway at night, you should use high beams. The faster the driving speed, the greater the requirement for the driver's visibility distance. Turning on the high beams allows the driver to see farther, preventing accidents caused by not seeing road obstacles, pedestrians, or oncoming vehicles during high-speed driving. Light selection on the highway: In normal weather conditions, fog lights should not be used, whether during the day or night. Additionally, when meeting oncoming vehicles on roads without dividers, you should slow down at a distance of about 150 meters and switch from high beams to low beams. If the oncoming vehicle does not switch to low beams, the driver should slow down and use the method of alternating between high and low beams to signal the oncoming driver. If the oncoming driver still does not switch lights, simply continue driving in your own lane. Scenarios requiring high beams: When unfamiliar with the road and needing to read road signs or other markers, high beams can be used but should be quickly switched back to low beams. When overtaking another vehicle, the left turn signal should be activated in advance, and the driver should alternate between high and low beams or use the horn to alert the vehicle ahead to yield.
As someone who frequently takes road trips, I believe it's crucial to handle high beams with care when driving on highways at night. Highways are generally dimly lit, and using high beams allows you to see farther down the road, helping you spot obstacles in advance. However, the key is timely switching: when you notice oncoming traffic or see a vehicle approaching in your rearview mirror, immediately switch to low beams to avoid dazzling others and causing accidents. If you tailgate without switching lights, you might risk a rear-end collision. I always follow this practice—using high beams to enhance visibility and safety, then quickly switching when there's any sign of other vehicles. This not only protects yourself but also respects others. Once it becomes a habit, driving feels more secure, helping you avoid nighttime emergencies.
