When should you use high beams?

• A. On open roads when no oncoming traffic is present
• B. In heavy traffic
• C. In fog
• D. At streetlights

Answer: (A)

High beams should be used when your path ahead is dark and clear of other vehicles, so you can maximize your visibility without blinding anyone. On open, rural roads with no oncoming traffic, the extra light helps you spot hazards far ahead—like animals, pedestrians, or sharp curves—giving you more time to react. They aren’t appropriate in heavy traffic because the brightness can glare into other drivers’ eyes, making it harder for them to see. In fog, high beams bounce back and reduce visibility, so low beams are better. In areas with streetlights, there’s usually enough ambient light, so high beams aren’t needed and can cause unnecessary glare.