Turn headlights on in dark, adverse weather conditions

March Law of the Month: Proper Headlight Use

The Wisconsin State Patrol encourages drivers to check over vehicles to ensure equipment and lights are working properly this season.

When Daylight Saving Time begins in March, we spring ahead and get more daylight hours. This time of year also brings changing weather conditions, so it’s important to remember the correct use of headlights.

State law requires drivers to use headlights:

• During hours of darkness and all other times when there is insufficient natural light to clearly see a person or vehicle 500 feet away.
• In adverse weather conditions (such as fog, rain or snow) that limit visibility.

“These rules are in place to help everyone stay safe on the roads,” Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “The more we use our lights, the better we can see what’s ahead, and each other, to avoid incidents. Our goal is to prevent crashes and injuries through these simple steps.”

High beams are an effective way to see more clearly in good weather conditions, but they must be dimmed 500 feet upon approaching another vehicle and while following traffic. Look away from oncoming vehicles to avoid the glare of headlights, which can cause temporary vision problems.

Headlights, taillights and other reflectors must also be kept reasonably clean and functioning properly to maintain visibility for drivers and others on the roads. Take the time to make sure lights are clean, aimed correctly and working properly.

Many vehicles have automatic light settings, but those are not always reliable, so drivers should manually turn on the lights at dusk and in adverse weather.

Share the road

As the weather warms up this spring, we can expect to share the road with more motorcyclists, pedestrians and bicyclists. Drivers are asked to use extra caution and look twice for vulnerable road users. Headlights and taillights allow non-motorists to see traffic coming their way and stay safer.

Motorcyclists and bicyclists should also use lights at dusk, at night, and in inclement weather, to remain as visible as possible for vehicle drivers. Pedestrians can also wear reflective gear to be better seen at night.

Drivers should keep an eye out for emergency lights as well. Motorists are required by state law to put the phone down and move over or slow down for first responders, maintenance crews and construction workers with flashing lights activated. Highway work will soon resume on roads throughout the state, so drivers must give workers room to stay safe on the job.