Proper use of headlights is very important while driving on the highway at night. Due to less light on the road, many drivers constantly drive on high beam, but this habit can prove to be very dangerous when a vehicle comes from the front or while driving behind another vehicle. Bright light falling into the eyes of the driver in front can reduce visibility for a few seconds and increase the risk of an accident.
When to use high beam?
High beam should be used only when necessary. On a road where there are no street lights and there is complete darkness around, if there is no vehicle in front or ahead, then high beam can help in seeing the road for a longer distance.
But as soon as a vehicle is seen coming from the front, one should immediately switch off the high beam and switch to low beam. Due to this, direct bright light will not fall on the eyes of the driver in front.
Similarly, if you are walking behind a car or bike, then high beam should be avoided. Bright light coming from behind can reflect into the rear-view mirror of another vehicle and dazzle the driver.
Avoid high beam even in fog and rain
Using high beam during dense fog, mist or heavy rain is also not considered appropriate. Bright light can bounce off water droplets or fog and bounce back toward the driver. Due to this, instead of making the road clearly visible, visibility may become worse.
In such weather, using low beam is a safer option according to the circumstances.
Why is continuous high beam dangerous on the highway?
On a high-speed highway, it may be difficult to see the road clearly for a few seconds due to the high beam falling into the eyes of the driver in front. During this time, there is a danger of not seeing the pedestrian, divider, parked vehicle or any other obstacle present on the roadside. The same problem arises for the vehicle behind. With continuous high beam, the driver of a vehicle moving ahead sees bright light in the rear-view mirror, due to which he may have difficulty in estimating the distance and position of the vehicle coming behind.
How much can be the challan on high beam?
Using high beam unnecessarily can lead to action under traffic rules. According to the information given, there can be a fine of Rs 500 to Rs 1,500 for using high beam incorrectly or unnecessarily. Action can also be taken against the driving license if there is an accident due to repeated rule breaking or negligence.
Keep these things in mind while driving at night
As soon as a vehicle approaches from the front, change the high beam to low beam.
Do not use high beams while following a vehicle.
Avoid high beam in fog and heavy rain.
Even on dark roads, use high beam only as per need.
Avoid flashing lights that may dazzle the driver in front.
Drive according to road conditions and visibility instead of speeding.
Remember, safe driving at night doesn't just mean lighting your road, but also keeping in mind the visibility of others in front and around you.