When should you use low beam headlights?

Using low beam headlights is particularly important in conditions such as fog and heavy rain because they are designed to minimize glare and provide better visibility under these circumstances. High beam headlights can reflect off the moisture in the air, such as fog or heavy rain, which can create a blinding effect for the driver and impair visibility further. Low beams cast light more directly onto the road, allowing the driver to see the path ahead clearly while also reducing the chances of blinding other drivers or getting distracted by the light reflection.

Driving in the city often comes with streetlights and other sources of illumination, so while it's beneficial to use low beams in such areas, it's not a specific requirement tied to environmental conditions. On clear, sunny days, using low beams is unnecessary as natural light is sufficient for visibility, and high beams would be inappropriate as they can dazzle other road users. Following another vehicle closely also calls for low beams to avoid shining bright lights into the rear-view mirror of the vehicle ahead, which can be distracting. Therefore, using low beam headlights in fog and heavy rain is the best practice for ensuring safety and visibility on the road.