Vehicle Lights: See and Be Seen

 
The days are steadily growing shorter. Soon either your morning or evening commute could be in the dark. You rely on the lights on your vehicle to provide nighttime visibility, signal to other drivers that you are turning, stopping, or reversing, and allow you to monitor your gauges. Your safety depends being able to see and be seen.
 

Maintain your vehicle lights and visibility with these tips.

 
When in doubt, turn your lights on. Whether it’s a cloudy, gray day, lightly raining, or just before dusk, driving with your lights on makes it easier for other drivers to see you. Some states, such as Massachusetts, require you to use your headlights any time your wipers are on.
 
Monitor your speed. Keep your stopping distance within the range of your headlights.
 
Replace the bulbs on a schedule. Headlight bulbs can dim over time, and you may not be aware of the gradual loss of visibility. Because different types of bulbs have widely different life spans, check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for a recommendation on how often they should be replaced on your vehicle.
 
Replace your bulbs in pairs. Unbalanced or unpredictable light beams are a safety risk to both you and other drivers.
 
Upgrade your bulbs. Upgrading to better headlight bulbs can increase your downroad visibility. Switching to a whiter light improves contrast and clarity.
 
Ensure your headlights are properly aimed. Misaligned lights are dangerous to other drivers and reduce your visible range.

Keep your headlights, taillights, and turn signals clean. Dirt and debris dim your available light, reducing your field of vision and making it harder for other drivers to see you.
 
Maintain your headlight lenses. Depending on your typical driving conditions and the age of your vehicle, your headlights will eventually need restoration. Cloudy headlight lenses hinder night vision and can reduce their effectiveness by as much as 80% according to Consumer Reports. Request headlight restoration when you schedule your next service appointment.
 
Keeping your vehicle’s lights properly cared for will help ensure a safer ride, keeping the road ahead well-lit and giving you a clear view.
 
Source: Car Care Council