What lights should be used when driving through an intersection at night?
2 Answers
When approaching an intersection at night, low beam headlights should be used. Using high beams at intersections is unsafe - if there's an oncoming vehicle while pedestrians are crossing, both drivers would be dazzled by the high beams, making it difficult to spot pedestrians and potentially causing accidents. Therefore, low beams are recommended. Low beams must be turned on when driving in unlit areas at night, during dusk when visibility is poor, or at dawn. They're also required during daytime in foggy, snowy, or heavy rain conditions when visibility is compromised. Low beams should also be used on roads with inadequate street lighting. When approaching uncontrolled intersections (without traffic lights) at night, drivers should alternate between high and low beams near the intersection to alert cross-traffic vehicles and pedestrians.
Having driven for decades, I firmly believe that using low beams at intersections at night is crucial. It allows you to see the road clearly without blinding oncoming drivers. High beams can dazzle others, increasing accident risks, especially in busy intersections with heavy traffic. I recall a near-miss incident caused by someone approaching with high beams, making it hard to see traffic signals. So, I recommend switching to auto mode if available, or manually toggling—never lazily defaulting to high beams. Safety first. Always pair with turn signals to indicate direction, whether turning or going straight. Stay alert, reduce speed, and scan surroundings—darkness hides many hazards. In short, make low beams at intersections a habit: it protects you, respects others, and prevents unnecessary trouble.
