What lights should be used when passing through an intersection?
2 Answers
When passing through an intersection, vehicles should use low beam headlights. Alternating use of low beam headlights when passing through an intersection can improve safety for both vehicles and pedestrians. Learning to use lights correctly during driving can enhance overall driving safety. When driving on urban roads at night, do not turn on high beam headlights as this may interfere with the vision of oncoming drivers. High beams can be used when driving on highways at night. When turning left, make the turn from the left side of the intersection center point; activate the turn signal when turning and use low beam headlights at night. When driving at night on roads without streetlights, under poor lighting conditions, or in low visibility situations such as fog, rain, snow, dust, or hail, vehicles should turn on headlights, position lights, and rear lights. However, high beams should not be used when following another vehicle closely in the same direction. During foggy conditions, vehicles should turn on fog lights and hazard warning flashers. Low beam headlights are designed for close-range illumination, featuring a wide 160° coverage area with short projection distance and non-adjustable focus. The illumination distance of low beams is approximately 30-40 meters. Despite this limited range, low beams have a clearly defined cutoff line between light and dark areas.
When driving through intersections, proper light settings are crucial, especially during nighttime or foggy conditions. I always keep my headlights on low beam mode to illuminate the road without dazzling other drivers or pedestrians. When turning, I signal my intention by activating the turn indicators dozens of meters in advance, ensuring the signals are clear enough for people from all directions to notice. Last time at a rainy intersection, a cyclist almost collided with me because my lights were dimmed too much for clear visibility. Now I pay extra attention to adjusting brightness and direction at every crossing. While traffic rules form the foundation of safety, experience has taught me the importance of flexibility—like reducing speed and checking blind spots to complement lighting. Vehicle lights aren't just for illumination; they're a vital communication method with the outside world.
