When is it appropriate to use high beam headlights?

Using high beam headlights is appropriate in rural areas with no oncoming traffic because these headlights provide greater illumination of the roadway ahead. In such areas, where streetlights may be lacking and visibility is limited, high beams enhance the driver's ability to see obstacles, wildlife, or other road hazards that could be more difficult to spot under normal or low beam conditions.

In contrast, scenarios like city driving with street lights, driving in foggy conditions, or driving behind another vehicle typically require the use of low beams. Streetlights generally offer sufficient illumination, while high beams can create glare for other drivers or diminish visibility in foggy conditions by reflecting off the moisture in the air. When driving behind another vehicle, using high beams can also blind the driver in front, making it unsafe. Thus, reserving high beams for dark, rural areas without oncoming traffic optimizes visibility without compromising safety for others on the road.