Under What Circumstances Should High and Low Beam Headlights Be Switched?
3 Answers
Alternating between high and low beam headlights, first switching to high beam and then back to low beam, includes the following situations: 1. When drivers pass through sharp curves, slopes, overtaking (while simultaneously turning on the left signal), arched bridges, pedestrian crossings, or intersections without traffic signals. 2. During nighttime driving, giving some warning to the vehicle ahead: for example, if an oncoming vehicle is using high beams, making it difficult for the driver to see the road conditions, flashing the headlights twice can remind the other party to switch to low beams. Article 59 of the "Regulations" stipulates: When motor vehicles pass through sharp curves, slopes, arched bridges, pedestrian crossings, or intersections without traffic signal control at night, they should alternately use high and low beam headlights to signal.
Using high and low beams properly is crucial when driving at night. Having driven for most of my life and encountered various situations, I always prioritize safety. When there's an oncoming vehicle, you must immediately switch to low beams; otherwise, the dazzling lights may cause the other driver to be temporarily blinded, increasing the risk of an accident. In foggy or rainy conditions, where light scatters severely, sticking to low beams is the safest choice—using high beams in heavy fog actually worsens visibility, a lesson I learned the hard way on the highway. On well-lit urban roads, there's no need for high beams; low beams suffice. When following another vehicle, avoid using high beams to prevent glare in their rearview mirror, which could lead to tension. Developing the habit of timely beam switching helps avoid fines, ensures everyone's safety, and extends bulb life. Regularly check your headlights, such as ensuring their brightness is normal, so you don’t discover an issue only after they fail.
Using high beams properly while driving at night can be a godsend, but misuse can be a disaster. Last week, I was cruising on the highway late at night, initially enjoying the clear view with high beams on, only to panic when a car suddenly appeared in front of me, forcing me to quickly switch back to low beams. The rule is simple: switch to low beams when there's a car within 150 meters ahead to avoid blinding others; also, avoid using high beams when following another car, as shining light into their rearview mirror is annoying—I’ve been flashed a few times as a reminder. Foggy conditions are worse—high beams cause light scatter, making it hard to see anything. It’s best to develop a default habit: use high beams in low-light conditions to see the road ahead, but switch back immediately when someone appears. New drivers who often forget should set a phone reminder or practice quick switching until it becomes second nature. Safety first—don’t skip the hassle, and with practice, it’ll become routine.
