What is the Difference Between High Beam and Low Beam, and How to Use Them Correctly?
2 Answers
High beams illuminate a longer distance. They should only be used when there is no other light source around. Low beams have a shorter illumination distance, approximately 30-40 meters. They should be used when there is oncoming traffic or when following another vehicle at a close distance.
The difference between high beams and low beams is quite distinct. High beams illuminate farther and brighter, with the light beam projecting higher, making them suitable for use in completely dark rural areas or on highways when there are no other vehicles around. They allow you to spot hazards like roadside animals or obstacles earlier. However, never use them when there are oncoming vehicles or pedestrians, as they can dazzle others and impair their vision, increasing the risk of accidents. Low beams, on the other hand, provide closer and lower illumination, making them much safer in urban areas, heavy traffic, or rainy conditions without disturbing others. The correct usage is to start with low beams when driving and switch to high beams only if the road is dark and free of other vehicles. Immediately switch back to low beams upon spotting headlights or reflections of pedestrians in the mirror. Remember, there’s a switch or lever in the car for this purpose, and developing this habit is crucial. I always keep a flashlight handy to check if the headlight angle is correct—an angle that’s too high might be mistaken for high beams. Also, regularly maintain the headlight covers to prevent aging and cloudiness.
