Driving without adequate light is dangerous for you and others on the road. Your lights allow you to see, and they help others see you. Always know where the headlight switch is before you begin driving; consult the owner's manual.
Whenever you use your windshield wipers in poor weather, you must use your headlights. If you cannot see pedestrians or vehicles clearly from 1,000 feet away, you must use your headlights.
Your vehicle should have the following lights:
Low Beam Headlights
- Used when driving between a half-hour before sunset and a half-hour after sunrise
- Used during poor weather and any time the windshield wipers are on due to poor weather
- Have a visibility of 100 feet
High Beam Headlights
- Used for low visibility conditions
- Must be off when following another car at less than 300 feet or when an oncoming car is less than 500 feet away
- Will not be helpful in fog; the light will reflect back
Brake Lights
- Three red lights in the rear of the vehicle
- Warn other drivers that you are slowing down or stopping
- Activated when you press the brake pedal
- Visible from at least 300 feet away
Reverse Lights
- White or yellow lights on the rear of your vehicle
- Activated when your car is in reverse (R)
- Tell other drivers you are reversing, and light the path when you back up at night
Taillights
- Red lights in the rear of your vehicle
- Visible from 1,000 feet away
Fog Lights
- Two lights in the front and rear of the vehicle
- Not to be used alone
- Helpful when driving through smoke, fog, rain, or snow
License Plate Light
- A small light that makes your license plate visible from 50 ft. away at night
Hazard Lights
- Used during emergencies
- Tells other drivers to exercise caution around your vehicle