What lights should be turned on when driving at night under poor lighting conditions without street lights?
3 Answers
You should turn on the headlights, clearance lights, and rear position lights. Here are the specific details: Legal provisions: Article 58 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": When motor vehicles are driving at night without street lights, under poor lighting conditions, or in low visibility situations such as fog, rain, snow, dust, or hail, they must turn on the headlights, clearance lights, and rear position lights. However, when a following vehicle is driving close to the vehicle in front in the same direction, high beams should not be used. Motor vehicles driving in foggy conditions should turn on the fog lights and hazard warning flashers. Car high beams: Car high beams are generally suitable for motor vehicles driving at night on roads without street lights or under poor lighting conditions, such as on dimly lit national highways or expressways. In urban areas where lighting is good, low beams must be used.
As someone who frequently drives at night, I must emphasize the importance of turning on your car lights when driving on roads without streetlights. Every time I drive in such conditions, I use low beams—they prevent blinding others while still illuminating the road clearly. If the road is empty, I briefly switch to high beams for better visibility, but never keep them on continuously to avoid blinding oncoming drivers and causing accidents. Don’t forget to check if your lights are functioning properly—issues like burnt-out bulbs or foggy covers can increase the risk of nighttime accidents. I also make it a habit to have the wiring inspected regularly at a shop, as aging wires can lead to dangerous electrical leaks. Safety comes first—proper lighting helps you spot potholes or animals early, reducing unexpected hazards. I learned these lessons when I first bought my new car, and now, every nighttime drive feels much safer.
I just learned to drive recently and feel nervous when driving on unlit roads at night. My instructor said to use low beams, which illuminate the road ahead without being glaring. I've tried it a few times, and it works well. If the road is empty with no other cars, you can switch to high beams for brighter light, but remember to quickly switch back to low beams to avoid blinding oncoming drivers. Also, it's advisable to regularly check your car lights. I once had a bulb burn out, which made my vision blurry at night and almost caused a scrape. Don’t forget to clean the lamp covers too—dust buildup can dim the light. These small things may seem simple, but they can significantly improve driving safety. I’ve heard similar lessons from friends, so now I pay extra attention to my car’s lighting condition while driving.
