What lights should be used when meeting on a narrow road?
2 Answers
When meeting non-motorized vehicles on narrow roads or narrow bridges at night, low beam headlights should be used. According to Article 48 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law": On roads without central separation facilities or center lines, when motor vehicles encounter vehicles coming from the opposite direction, the following rules should be observed: At night, when meeting vehicles from the opposite direction, switch to low beam headlights at least 150 meters away. When meeting non-motorized vehicles on narrow roads or narrow bridges, low beam headlights should be used. Extended information: The regulations specify several situations for the use of high beam and low beam headlights: 1. On roads without central separation facilities or center lines, when meeting vehicles at night, switch to low beam headlights at least 150 meters away from the opposite direction. When meeting non-motorized vehicles on narrow roads or narrow bridges, low beam headlights should be used. 2. When motor vehicles pass through intersections controlled by traffic signals, low beam headlights should be turned on at night. 3. When motor vehicles are driving at night on roads without street lights, poor lighting, or in low visibility conditions such as fog, rain, snow, dust, or hail, they should turn on headlights, position lights, and rear lights. However, high beam headlights should not be used when a following vehicle is driving close to the vehicle in front in the same direction. 4. When motor vehicles pass 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. 5. When overtaking, motor vehicles should turn on the left turn signal in advance, alternately use high and low beam headlights, or sound the horn.
When driving on narrow roads and encountering oncoming traffic, I usually switch my headlights to the low beam position immediately. In such situations, the road is narrow, and the lights from the opposite car can easily dazzle me. I also worry that my high beams might affect the other driver's visibility. I remember one time driving at night on a mountain road when the oncoming car didn’t dim their lights—I almost couldn’t see the curve ahead. Fortunately, I slowed down in time to avoid danger. Since then, I’ve always reminded myself to adjust my lights early to prevent risks for both sides. It’s not just about following traffic rules; it’s more like a courteous gesture—mutual consideration for a safe journey home. When driving on narrow roads, adjusting the lights quickly and adapting to road conditions is crucial. For example, in foggy weather with poor visibility, extra care must be taken to control the light intensity. After developing this habit, my driving experience has become much smoother.
