Headlight Use Is Required From Sunset To Sunrise
Vehicle headlight use laws vary. Each state has specific laws about when cars need to have their headlights illuminated. But as a general rule, and it is the law in Florida, car and truck headlights need to be on from sunset to sunrise. When you can’t see hazards when driving, or when other cars can’t see you, crashes and accident injuries are possible.
Automatic headlights, headlights on vehicles that react to low light and turn themselves on, have become more common and are standard on new cars and trucks. If you drive a car with automatic headlights you have likely seen your headlights turn on when the sun begins to set.
But there are drivers who have older cars, vehicles that rely on an operator turning the lights on and illuminating their ride during the nighttime hours. Headlights are also essential during inclement weather. If you were involved in an accident with a car in low light conditions, discuss your situation with an Orlando car accident lawyer.
Driving in Tunnels and through Rainstorms
When the environment arounds you changes, you need to adjust your driving behaviors. If you have a car with automatic features, they will adjust for you. For example, if you drive into a tunnel or underground parking garage, you need to have your headlights on so others can see you. Automatic headlights that are working properly will illuminate on their own.
Similarly, if the weather changes and the skies darken as it begins to rain, headlights need to be on. In fact, if your windshield wipers are on, your headlights should be on as well. People who drive a lot sometimes misjudge conditions, and believe they can drive the same on a sunny day as they would through a rainstorm. This is not true. To arrive safely at your destination, you need to slow down when it is raining, and turn on your wipers and headlights.
Florida Law Requires Nighttime Headlight Use
From sunset to sunrise, vehicular headlights need to be on under Florida Statute 316.217. There are other statutes in place surrounding high beam use as well. If oncoming traffic is within 500 feet, turn off your high beams. While high beam lights are needed to see in fully dark areas, they can blind oncoming traffic and need to be turned down when other drivers are approaching.
Seeing clearly is part of driving safely and drivers can’t see without proper illumination. If you need help securing just compensation after a nighttime crash in Florida, talk to an Orlando car accident lawyer.
Are you still unsure what prompted your car crash because you were hit at night by a car that did not have its headlights on? You deserve to be compensated if another driver was negligent. To schedule a complimentary consultation, contact the Orlando personal injury attorneys at Israoui Law at 407-381-4529. Our experienced lawyers are familiar with all of the details associated with car accidents and how to secure just compensation. At Israoui Law, personal attention matters.
