What lights should be used when passing through an intersection at night?
3 Answers
When passing through an intersection at night, you should alternately use high and low beams (flashing more than twice). Additional information: Usage of alternating high and low beams: When passing through sharp curves, slopes, arch bridges, crosswalks, or intersections without traffic lights at night, you should alternately use high and low (headlight) beams (flashing more than twice). Usage of low beams: When driving on well-lit roads, you should use low beams; also, when following another vehicle, low beams should be used to allow the vehicle ahead to observe the situation behind through the rearview mirror; if the distance to an oncoming vehicle is within 150 meters during a meeting situation, you also need to switch from high beams to low beams.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I believe safety is the top priority when crossing intersections at night. Using high beams allows you to see farther, helping you spot pedestrians, bicycles, and other vehicles' movements, thus reducing collision risks. However, remember to switch flexibly—if there's oncoming traffic or pedestrians crossing, quickly switch to low beams to avoid blinding them. I always follow this practice myself, combined with slowing down to around 20 km/h while checking traffic lights and blind spots. Intersections already have poor visibility, and nights make them even more hazardous—any sudden situations could easily lead to accidents. I recommend new drivers develop this habit too: it's better to wait an extra second than rush and cause an accident.
I haven't been driving for long, but during lessons my instructor repeatedly emphasized using high beams at night when crossing intersections. It helps you see the entire area clearly, including traffic light changes and roadside conditions, which is quite useful. However, you must remember to switch back to low beams promptly - change them immediately when you spot approaching vehicles or pedestrians, otherwise you'll blind others and create hazards. I've also found that slowing down to under 30 km/h in advance helps pass through smoothly with less tension. Practicing in urban areas makes this scenario quite common, so I've developed the habit of checking mirrors multiple times to ensure no electric bikes suddenly appear. Following the rules always helps avoid trouble, just don't get careless.
