What lights to use on rainy days?
3 Answers
On rainy days, use low beam headlights, front fog lights, and clearance lights. Low beam headlights are designed for close-range illumination, with a wide coverage angle (160 degrees) but short projection distance, and their focus cannot be adjusted. Fog lights are installed at the front and rear of the vehicle. During foggy conditions with low visibility, where the driver's line of sight is limited, these lights can extend the visible distance. Especially, yellow anti-fog lights have strong light penetration, enhancing visibility for both the driver and other traffic participants. Clearance lights serve as warning lights to alert other vehicles. They are located at the front and rear edges of the vehicle. Large trucks also have clearance lights on their roofs and sides. Installed along the top edges of the vehicle, clearance lights indicate both the height and width of the car.
I remember one time driving home in the rain when the road was barely visible, as if in fog. I immediately turned on the low beams, and the visibility improved significantly, making it easier for cars ahead and around me to notice me. When the rain is heavy, avoid using high beams because the water can reflect the light, which might dazzle you instead. I usually make it a habit to automatically turn on the lights in rainy conditions—this helps reduce the risk of accidents. If the rain is particularly heavy or the fog is dense, you can also turn on the fog lights, but check the owner’s manual first to see if they’re supported. Safety always comes first; developing the habit of using low beams in the rain can protect both yourself and others. Additionally, check if your lights are working properly, and clean them if they’re dirty to ensure clear illumination.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I find using headlights in the rain quite simple: just use low beams. They illuminate the road without dazzling others, preventing misunderstandings that could arise from being mistaken for high beams. In rainy conditions with poor visibility, where raindrops reflect light and reduce clarity, low beams provide stable illumination for a limited area ahead. During my long-distance drives, I always remember to turn on the lights first when encountering heavy rain. If visibility drops below a few dozen meters in torrential rain, some cars come equipped with fog lights for additional assistance, but they shouldn't be overused. The key is to reduce speed and use the lights appropriately for much safer driving. Every time I service my car, I also check if the lights are working properly—never let small issues become big problems. Remember: safe driving isn't just about choosing the right lights; it's also about mindset and habits.
