Driving at night or in low-visibility conditions requires proper lighting to ensure safety. If your headlights stop working, you might consider turning on your high beams (brights) as a temporary solution. However, using brights when headlights are out can create safety risks and legal issues.
This content explores the dangers, legal implications, and alternatives to driving with brights on when headlights fail.
Why Do Headlights Stop Working?
Before discussing whether using high beams is a good idea, it’s important to understand why headlights might fail. Some common reasons include:
1. Blown Bulbs
Headlight bulbs have a limited lifespan and can burn out over time. If one or both bulbs fail, your headlights wont function properly.
2. Electrical Issues
A faulty fuse, wiring, or relay can prevent headlights from turning on. Corrosion, loose connections, or damaged wires may also cause flickering or complete failure.
3. Faulty Headlight Switch
The headlight switch can wear out over time, preventing lights from turning on even when the bulbs are fine.
4. Bad Alternator or Battery Issues
If your alternator is failing, it may not provide enough power to keep your headlights running. A weak or dying battery can also affect lighting performance.
5. Moisture or Condensation
Water inside the headlight housing can damage bulbs and electrical components, leading to malfunction.
Is It Safe to Drive with High Beams When Headlights Are Out?
1. High Beams Can Blind Other Drivers
Brights are designed for use in rural or poorly lit areas, where visibility is low, and theres no oncoming traffic. Using them in normal traffic conditions can cause temporary blindness for other drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
2. Limited Visibility in Bad Weather
High beams are ineffective in fog, rain, or snow because they create glare that reflects off moisture in the air, reducing visibility instead of improving it.
3. Difficulty Seeing Road Signs and Lane Markings
High beams can create too much contrast, making it harder to see reflective road signs, traffic lights, and lane markings, especially in urban areas.
4. Increased Risk of Accidents
Using high beams inappropriately can cause road rage, sudden braking, and misjudgments, leading to potential collisions.
5. Legal Consequences
In many places, driving with high beams when headlights are out is illegal. Traffic laws typically require functional low-beam headlights at night, and improper use of high beams can result in fines or penalties.
What Does the Law Say?
Traffic laws vary by state and country, but most have specific rules about using high beams and functional headlights:
1. Mandatory Headlights at Night
Many jurisdictions require vehicles to have working low-beam headlights from sunset to sunrise, as well as in bad weather.
2. High Beam Restrictions
Most laws prohibit using high beams within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle and within 200-300 feet when following another car.
3. Fines for Non-Working Headlights
Driving with malfunctioning headlights can result in a traffic citation. The fines vary but typically range from $50 to $200.
Before relying on brights, check your local laws to avoid violations.
What to Do If Your Headlights Fail While Driving
If you realize your headlights are out, follow these steps to stay safe and avoid legal trouble.
1. Pull Over Safely
If your headlights suddenly stop working while driving at night, slow down and pull over in a safe location. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Check for Simple Fixes
Try these quick solutions before continuing:
- Turn the switch off and on to check if its a temporary issue.
- Tap the headlight housing sometimes, loose connections cause flickering lights.
- Check the fuse box a blown fuse may be the cause of failure.
3. Use Fog Lights (If Available)
If your car has fog lights, they can provide some illumination in an emergency. However, they are not a full substitute for headlights.
4. Drive to a Safe Location with Parking Lights
If your headlights dont work, use your parking lights or hazard lights and drive cautiously to a well-lit area or a repair shop.
5. Call for Help
If you cannot fix the issue, consider calling roadside assistance or a mechanic for help.
Preventing Headlight Failure
Regular maintenance can help prevent headlight failures and ensure safe driving at night.
1. Inspect and Replace Bulbs Regularly
Check your headlights frequently and replace bulbs every 1-2 years, even if they are still working, to prevent sudden failures.
2. Keep Headlights Clean
Dirt, dust, and moisture can reduce light output. Clean your headlights regularly and check for condensation inside the housing.
3. Test Electrical Components
Check fuses, wiring, and the headlight switch to ensure they function properly.
4. Upgrade to LED or HID Headlights
Modern LED and HID lights are brighter, last longer, and are more energy-efficient than traditional halogen bulbs.
5. Carry Spare Bulbs and Fuses
Having spare headlight bulbs and fuses in your car can help you fix minor issues quickly.
Alternatives to Driving with High Beams
If your low-beam headlights fail, consider these alternatives instead of using high beams improperly:
1. Use a Flashlight or Portable Light
A high-powered flashlight can provide temporary visibility if you need to check your surroundings.
2. Follow Another Car at a Safe Distance
If you must drive, follow another car at a safe distance and use their headlights as a guide. However, this is not a long-term solution.
3. Use Emergency Roadside Assistance
Many insurance policies and auto clubs offer 24/7 roadside assistance. Call for help if you cannot drive safely.
4. Install Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
If your car has DRLs, they may provide some visibility. However, DRLs are not designed for night driving.
Final Thoughts
Driving with high beams on when headlights are out is not a safe or legal solution. While it might seem like a quick fix, it can blind other drivers, reduce visibility in bad weather, and lead to accidents or fines.
If your headlights fail:
- Pull over safely
- Check for quick fixes
- Use fog lights if available
- Call for assistance if needed
Preventing headlight failure through regular maintenance is the best way to ensure safe nighttime driving. Always prioritize safety and legality over convenience to protect yourself and others on the road.