Why Do People Use High Beams When They Shouldn’t?
Let’s be honest—almost everyone’s been guilty of accidentally leaving their high beams on at least once. Maybe you’re cruising down a dark highway and forget to switch them off when another car approaches. Or perhaps you think those extra-bright lights help you spot deer or potholes lurking in the shadows. But here’s the thing: driving with your high beams on when you shouldn’t isn’t just a minor slip-up. It can make everything on the road more difficult, and sometimes downright dangerous.
What Actually Happens When High Beams Are Left On?
High beams are designed to illuminate the road far ahead, which is great when you’re alone on a pitch-black country road. But in normal traffic, they’re blinding—literally. The intense glare can temporarily blind oncoming drivers or those in front of you, making it harder for them to see the road, pedestrians, or even traffic signals. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), glare from headlights is a significant factor in nighttime crashes. It’s not just about being polite; it’s about safety for everyone.
Are High Beams Really That Bad for Other Drivers?
Absolutely. Imagine you’re driving at night and suddenly get hit with a wall of light from an oncoming car. Your eyes need a few seconds to adjust after the glare, and in those seconds, you’re basically driving blind. The American Automobile Association (AAA) notes that nighttime driving is already risky—fatal crash rates are three times higher at night than during the day. Add high beams to the mix, and you’re increasing the odds of an accident. Even if you think you’re helping yourself see better, you’re making it much harder for everyone else.
When Is It Actually Okay to Use High Beams?
There’s a time and place for everything, and high beams are no exception. They’re meant for rural roads or highways with little to no traffic, where streetlights are few and far between. As soon as you see another car—whether it’s coming toward you or in your rearview mirror—it’s time to switch back to low beams. Many states have laws requiring you to dim your high beams within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle or 300 feet when following someone. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s the law.
What About Newer Cars With Automatic High Beams?
Technology’s come a long way, and many new vehicles now have automatic high-beam systems that switch between high and low beams based on traffic conditions. Sounds foolproof, right? Not quite. These systems aren’t perfect—they can miss motorcycles, cyclists, or even pedestrians. Plus, dirt or snow on your sensors can throw them off. So, even with fancy tech, it’s smart to stay alert and take control if you notice your lights aren’t adjusting when they should.
How Can You Remind Yourself to Use High Beams Responsibly?
It’s easy to get distracted, especially on long drives. One trick is to make it a habit: every time you see headlights or taillights ahead, check your beam setting. Some drivers even stick a small reminder on their dashboard. And if you’re ever unsure, err on the side of caution—low beams are almost always the safer bet in traffic.
What Should You Do If Someone Else Is Blinding You With Their High Beams?
First, try not to retaliate by flashing your own high beams. That just makes things worse. Instead, look toward the right edge of your lane and use it as a guide until the car passes. If it’s happening behind you, adjust your rearview mirror to the night setting to reduce glare. And if it’s a chronic problem in your area, consider mentioning it at your next community meeting or reaching out to local authorities.
The Big Takeaway? High beam etiquette isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.
