When driving, you watch over your integrity and that of your companions and the drivers around you. Therefore, having a good vision is essential to travel roads safely, hence also essential to know how your car’s lighting system works. Next, you will learn the types of headlights on a vehicle, when to use high beams and how to do it without impairing the vision of others.
When to use High Beams
Lighting system
Each car has its characteristics, and particular specifications vary according to the brand or manufacturer. However, most lighting systems are integrated with the following types of lights:
- Position
- Ups and downs
- Fog
- Directional (turning or crossing)
- Turn signals or Hazard
- Reverse
- Brake
To know when to use them, you should see the difference between high and low lights since each of them fulfills a specific function.
Difference between high and low beams
Low lights are the ones you probably use the most regularly. That is why it is normal for them to wear out, and you should check them periodically. These are typically used at night, although you can also use them during the day, either low visibility or on the road. In addition, they can be used while you are going through a tunnel or when it is raining. In general, your lighting does not dazzle or disturb other drivers.
On the other hand, high beams are ideal for driving on poorly lit roads. Also, you can use them when you need to distinguish an object from a long distance. However, you must know that you must be more careful with high beams, as you can dazzle other drivers, especially when driving on the opposite road. Even rearview mirrors. In addition, a light with exaggerated brightness and too powerful could affect even your vision.
High-intensity fog lights
In short, the high beams help to have better visibility. However, they are not recommended for driving in fog or heavy rain; it is convenient to use high-intensity fog lights for these occasions. Usually, the fog lights are integrated into the bumpers of the cars. Located at the front, they fulfill the function of forming a short-range beam of light that propagates without scattering. The rear ones serve so that other drivers can notice the presence of your vehicle. Like high beams, these should only be used in extreme situations. Their impact on drivers’ vision is such that the fines for using them under favorable conditions are around 200 euros in Spain.
Driving precautions
One of the factors that increase the risk of suffering a traffic accident is poor vision. Either because you have difficulty seeing at night or because the road does not have enough lighting. Anyway, now that you know when to use high beams, it is a good idea to follow some recommendations when driving:
- Avoid looking at other drivers’ lights directly as they approach head-on and focus your eyes to the right.
- Avoid any distractions and keep your eyes on the road.
Guarantee your safety and that of your companions, using the lights of your car correctly. Remember to be careful when changing them and avoid damaging the vision of other drivers when turning them on.
