Why Would Car Manufacturers Build a Feature in Every Car That is Potentially Illegal?

High beams are a safety feature designed to allow drivers to see farther and better on dark roads. However, their use can also be a cause of frustration for other drivers, especially when used improperly. This leads to questions about the legality of high beams and whether their use is truly legal. Let's delve into why these features are in every car and when they are not.

Why Is Flashing High Beams With Another Vehicle Approaching Considered Illegal?

The legality of using high beams is a nuanced topic. High beams are designed to be turned off when another vehicle is approaching to prevent blinding the oncoming driver. However, if you choose to leave your high beams on while another vehicle is approaching, it can be considered illegal. This is especially true in jurisdictions that have strict traffic laws.

When Is Flashing High Beams on Another Vehicle Illegal?

The act of flashing high beams at another vehicle is often seen as aggressive and can be illegal. In most cases, the use of high beams should be reserved for unlit roads or when there is no oncoming traffic. If you are following another vehicle and keep your high beams on, you are also at risk of incurring legal consequences.

What Happens If You Fail to Turn Off High Beams When Approaching Traffic?

If you fail to turn off your high beams when approaching traffic, it is possible that you will be pulled over by law enforcement. If an officer sees you using your high beams when another vehicle is approaching, they will give you a warning. However, if you continue to use your high beams in this manner, you may face fines or other legal consequences.

Real-Life Incident: A Driver Forced to Pull Over

One real-life incident that illustrates the danger of using high beams improperly occurred when the author was once driving on a dark road. Suddenly, a car with its high beams on approached from the opposite direction. The intensity of the headlights was so bright that they created a blinding effect, making it difficult for the author to maintain control of the vehicle. The situation was so severe that the author had to pull over to the side of the road, believing that if they continued to drive, they would risk crashing because of the loss of vision.

The Significance of Being a Good and Sensible Driver

Being a responsible and conscientious driver is crucial, especially when considering the use of high beams. Flashing high beams at others, even when justified, can be perceived as aggressive and confrontational. If you do need to pass another vehicle, it is typically best to use your low beams and wait for a safe opportunity to switch to high beams if needed.

Best Practices for Using High Beams Safely

Remember the following best practices to ensure safe driving and avoid legal issues:

Use high beams only in areas with no oncoming traffic or when the road is void of other vehicles. Reduce the intensity and turn off high beams when approaching another vehicle to prevent blinding the oncoming driver. Use low beams when following another vehicle.

Conclusion

While high beams are a useful safety feature, they must be used responsibly. Misusing high beams can lead to legal issues and pose a danger to other drivers, so it's important to understand the rules and use them correctly. By being a sensible and responsible driver, you can help maintain safety on the roads and avoid unnecessary confrontations or legal problems.