Lights might not seem like a big deal when it comes to maintaining your vehicle, but there can be no doubt that these flashing bulbs are critical to abide by the law and daily safe operation. Legally, it’s required that vehicle lights function correctly, in most settings. You’d be surprised to know how much goes into fog lights, brake lights, headlights, and some common courtesies.
When using lights, drivers need to know each light serves a combined purpose to make the vehicle safer. In essence, it’s much safer to use the right light for the proper condition. Often times we think that putting more light into poor visibility will solve our problem. In reality, what it takes is putting the right type of light on the situation to afford you the best opportunity for safe vehicle operation.
Full beam headlights. The brightest type of headlight on standard vehicles, full beam headlights are angled higher than dipped headlights. This is for the apparent purpose of more road visibility. They are also known in many circles as “high beams.” Full beam headlights shine at an angle to illuminate the road about twice as far as low beams. Plain and simple, keeping full beams on all the time is not safe for other drivers.
Headlights. Typically, we might call low beams or refer to them as dipped headlights; these lights range in many different brightness levels and even colors. These lights serve as the main light on motor vehicles, and the beam is set at a lower angle position, to enable oncoming drivers the ability to see.
Fog Lights. Since Fog is just a cloud that is ground level, it can make driving safely a pretty big deal. With fog in the name, fog lights are made especially for situations where you find yourself having to drive through areas of limited visibility. Fog lights serve as supplementary lights and provide an enhancement of the main headlights. Let’s cover some Go and No Go criteria for fog lights.
Brake Lights. Designed to light up as soon as the brake pedal is depressed, brake lights are critical to any vehicle’s safe operation. They give a distinguishable warning to those behind for your change in speed. Maybe the most important light that you should ensure is working, your brake lights can save your life and the lives of those around you.
We must know the basics of how lights work, at a minimum. This ensures that everyone is driving safely with other people’s welfare top of mind. From not dazzling others with full beam headlights to providing your brake lights are in good working condition, remember to inform others when you see unsafe driving practices. Remind friends and family on the importance of using lights the right way so that we aren’t dazzling other drivers at night or using the wrong lights in inclement weather. Always use your lights the right way and be consistent in checking they are in good working order.