Headlights are for driving in low light. Learn when you should and shouldn’t use your high beams to avoid overwhelming other drivers and keeping yourself safe.
When visiting the Sierra, understanding when you should and shouldn’t use your high beams is especially important for drivers inexperienced with taking curvy, two-lane mountain roads. These roads can be misty, rainy, snowy, and dark, even in the morning as the sun comes up. The Sierra’s stunning scenery is one of the main reasons people visit, but it can be distracting: When driving in the Sierra, all your attention should be on the road until you find a fantastic place to pull off and enjoy the scenery.
Misusing your high beams is dangerous, particularly on mountain roads. Learn more about the different types of headlights and when to use them:
The Difference Between High Beams, Low Beams, and Fog Lights
High beams (also known as “brights”) illuminate a longer, wider stretch of road ahead of you, making them ideal for driving in dark, secluded areas with low visibility. In contrast, low beams provide a shorter, more focused range of light, suitable for city driving and well-lit roads.
Fog lights, positioned lower on your vehicle, cut through fog, snow, or heavy rain by casting a wide, low beam that illuminates the road directly in front of your vehicle. Fog lights are different from headlights on motorcycles, cars, pickups, and RVs.
When It’s OK To Use Your High Beams:
High beams have specific, limited uses where they can assist you in seeing the road and driving safely. These include the following:
When you can’t see the road and other cars are at least 200 feet ahead: If other vehicles are far enough ahead, your high beams can help you see further without affecting other drivers.
On rural roads with no lighting and little traffic: When traveling to remote areas to enjoy outdoor adventures, you may find yourself driving along roads with no streetlamps and very little traffic. In these cases, high beams can significantly improve your visibility, helping you spot and avoid potential hazards, such as wildlife or obstacles on the road.
When You Should Never Use Your High Beams:
Most drivers have experienced the shock and discomfort of having to look at brights from oncoming drivers. That’s a classic illustration of a time when a driver shouldn’t use their high beams. Don’t use your brights in these situations:
When there is oncoming traffic: Always switch to low beams when you see an oncoming vehicle to avoid overwhelming the other driver. It’s not just courteous; it’s a matter of safety!
In bad weather: Contrary to what some people think, high beams do not help you see better in snow, heavy rain, or fog. Instead, they reflect off the precipitation, creating a misty appearance and actually decreasing visibility. Stick to low beams or fog lights in these conditions.
On curves or going uphill: In these situations, your high beams could shine directly into the eyes of oncoming drivers before you have a chance to see them and react.
At intersections or stop signs: Always use low beams when approaching intersections, stop signs, or any situation where you’re likely to encounter other vehicles stopped or passing through.
Understanding when you should and shouldn’t use your high beams during your adventures can enhance your safety and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone on the road. Remember, the goal is to see and be seen without compromising your safety and that of others.
