What lights to use when following a car closely in the same direction at night?
2 Answers
When following a car closely in the same direction at night, you should use low beam headlights. Low beams must be used when the distance to the preceding vehicle is within 150 meters, and high beams should not be used. This is because high beams reflecting off the rearview mirror of the preceding vehicle can dazzle the driver, impairing their vision and potentially causing accidents. Meeting oncoming traffic: When meeting oncoming vehicles on roads without central barriers or center lines, high beams must not be used within 150 meters of the approaching vehicle. Crossing pedestrian crossings: When passing sharp curves, slopes, arched bridges, pedestrian crossings, or intersections without traffic signals, you should alternately switch between high and low beams to signal. For closely following a car in the same direction, use low beams. Low beams are designed for close-range illumination, with a coverage angle exceeding 160 degrees, short projection distance, and non-adjustable focus.
Last night I was driving closely behind another car on the highway, and it's essential to use low beams when traveling in the same direction at close range during nighttime. The reason is simple: high beams are too intense and will shine directly into the rearview mirror of the car in front, reflecting back and momentarily blinding the driver, which could lead to a rear-end collision. Low beams are designed to shine downward, illuminating only a short stretch of road ahead of your vehicle without disturbing others. Having driven long distances for years, I always manually switch from high beams to low beams in such situations—it's a good habit to cultivate. Also, don't forget to maintain a safe following distance, at least three seconds. Even with proper lighting, it's pointless if you're too close. Regulations also clearly state that high beams must not be used when following another vehicle closely, and violators may be fined. Safety comes first—don't cut corners with your lights.
