When should you use your high-beam headlights?

High-beam headlights are specifically designed to provide greater visibility at night, particularly when there is no oncoming traffic or street lighting to contend with. They illuminate a wider area and project light further down the road than low beams, making them ideal for dark, rural, or poorly lit roads. Using high beams when there is no oncoming traffic allows drivers to maximize their visibility and see potential hazards well in advance, which enhances overall safety.

In contrast, using high beams in foggy conditions can actually reduce visibility, as the light reflects off the fog droplets and creates a glare. During daytime, using high beams is generally unnecessary and could be blinding to other drivers. When parked on the side of the road, high beams are not advisable as they can distract or impede the vision of passing vehicles. Hence, the best practice for high-beam usage is in conditions where visibility is low and with no oncoming vehicles.