Motorists should read the rules of the Highway Code as using the wrong headlights could put you in danger
Drivers have been warned that using the wrong headlights could be breaking the Highway Code rules. Under rules 113 to 116, drivers are reminded which lights to use and when. The reminder comes after drivers complained about glare from oncoming headlights. This has led the government to re-examine the design of cars and headlamps on UK roads.
Motorists report that LED headlamps, which are becoming more common in new vehicles, are causing difficulties and making driving at night more challenging. Although research conducted for the Department for Transport (DfT) has not been released, the BBC reported the government now intends to initiate a fresh review of the causes and potential solutions.
Written on the official Highway Code website, Rule 115 states that drivers should “use dipped headlights, or dim-dip if fitted, at night in built-up areas and in dull daytime weather, to ensure that you can be seen.”
It also notes that people behind the wheel should “keep your headlights dipped when overtaking until you are level with the other vehicle and then change to main beam if necessary, unless this would dazzle oncoming road users.”
It further asks people to “slow down, and if necessary stop, if you are dazzled by oncoming headlights.” In the previous rule, number 114, the Code also notes that you “MUST NOT” do the following.
“MUST NOT” do the following:
- use any lights in a way which would dazzle or cause discomfort to other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders
- use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves to avoid dazzling other road users (Rule 226).
When stopped in stationary traffic, drivers should engage the parking brake and once the vehicles behind have halted, release the footbrake to turn off the brake lights. This is recommended as it helps reduce glare for drivers behind until traffic starts moving again.
Drivers should also note that the Highway Code states that under Rule 116, hazard warning lights should be used when your vehicle is stationary to signal that it is temporarily blocking traffic. They must not be used to justify dangerous or illegal parking.
This means you must not use hazard lights while driving or being towed, except on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway where you need to alert drivers behind you to a hazard or obstruction ahead. Use them only long enough to ensure that your warning has been noticed, it concluded.
