When should you use your high beams while driving?

Using high beams is recommended when driving on dark roads with no oncoming traffic because high beams illuminate the roadway farther ahead and provide better visibility in conditions where there is little or no ambient light. This is particularly useful for detecting potential hazards, pedestrians, or wildlife on rural or poorly lit roads.

On well-lit roads with heavy traffic, the brightness of high beams can impair the vision of other drivers. Similarly, city streets are generally illuminated enough that high beams are unnecessary and could cause glare to other drivers. Following another vehicle closely with high beams can also create visual disruption for the driver ahead, hindering their ability to see the road clearly. Keeping high beams for dark, isolated conditions maximizes safety and visibility without negatively affecting others on the road.