What lights should be used when following a car at close range at night?

[DelAlaina]

When following a car at close range at night, you should turn on the low beam. Regulations for using lights when driving at night: When meeting a vehicle from the opposite direction on a road without central isolation facilities or a center line, you cannot use the high beam within 150 meters of the oncoming vehicle; when meeting a non-motorized vehicle on a narrow bridge or narrow road without central isolation facilities or a center line, you cannot use the high beam; when driving at night in conditions with no streetlights, poor lighting, or low visibility due to fog, rain, snow, or dust, you cannot use the high beam when following a car closely in the same direction; when passing sharp curves, slopes, arched bridges, crosswalks, or intersections without traffic signals, you should alternately use the high and low beams as a signal. Violators will be fined and penalized with demerit points. The following situations require the use of low beams: Driving in areas without streetlights after dark or during dusk when it is relatively dark or at dawn when light is just appearing requires the use of low beams; in heavy fog, snow, or rain when visibility is obstructed, low beams must be used even during the day; on some roads where lighting is available but insufficient, low beams should also be used.

[StDeclan]

As a cautious driver, I always make sure to use low beams when following another vehicle closely at night. The main reason is that high beams shine directly into the rearview mirror of the car ahead, which can instantly blind the driver and make it difficult to see the road. This is extremely dangerous and can easily lead to a rear-end collision. Low beams only illuminate the road close to the ground, reducing this kind of interference. Maintaining a following distance of at least three seconds is safer, and moderate lighting helps you see the road conditions clearly. In foggy or slippery conditions, some drivers might think of turning on fog lights, which can be helpful, but make sure the angle of the fog lights isn’t too high to avoid dazzling other vehicles. Don’t forget, traffic rules in most places prohibit the use of high beams when approaching other vehicles. Safe driving starts with proper light selection, and developing this habit is crucial.

[LeMichael]

I've been driving for many years, and using only low beams when following vehicles at night is the most reliable approach. High beams can be blinding and uncomfortable for drivers ahead, causing them to brake or change lanes unpredictably—something you'll understand after experiencing it once. Low beams provide steady illumination without causing trouble, especially on highways or in congested urban roads. If the road is slippery or visibility is poor, supplementing with fog lights is acceptable, but their brightness should be adjusted lower. When following a car, don’t tailgate—adjusting lights alone isn’t enough; maintaining a safe distance is equally crucial. I always advise beginners to learn how to adjust based on road signs and traffic conditions. Light management may seem like a minor detail, but it impacts overall safety.

[HenryFitz]

From the perspective of automotive lighting design, the low beam's light is directed downward and spreads closer, making it suitable for situations with small vehicle spacing, such as following another car. Unlike high beams, it does not reflect strongly upward, avoiding interference with the driver ahead. Nighttime driving safety hinges on balancing illumination and mutual non-interference. Technically speaking, the lighting system includes reflectors and filters to control the brightness range. When driving at close distances, the low beam is the preferred choice, while also monitoring your own vehicle distance to ensure the lighting effectively aids driving.