When is it necessary to switch to high beams?

Switching to high beams is particularly necessary when driving on dark, unlit roads with little to no traffic present because it significantly increases visibility, allowing you to see further ahead and better discern potential hazards. High beams illuminate a greater distance ahead of the vehicle compared to low beams, making them ideal in situations where there are no other vehicles or bright streetlights that might create glare. This enhances your ability to spot obstacles, animals, or pedestrians that may not be visible with standard low beams.

In heavy traffic or foggy conditions, using high beams can create glare for other drivers or reflect off fog, rain, or snow, making it harder for you to see. Therefore, high beams are best utilized where there is minimal risk of affecting other road users and maximum benefit to the driver's visibility.