Defensive Driving Rule #34: Deal with Light Glare

Defensive Driving Rule #34: Deal with Light Glare

Protecting your night vision on the road is crucial for safe driving, especially with modern, brighter headlights. As we age, our ability to recover from bright lights diminishes, making us more susceptible to glare. If you struggle with glare recovery, slow down at night to avoid out-driving your headlights.

Resist the urge to flash your brights at oncoming drivers, as it can create a dangerous situation for both parties. It’s also illegal to use high beams when approaching or following closely behind another vehicle. Most states have regulations requiring drivers to dim their lights within a certain distance of other vehicles.

To manage glare, avert your eyes slightly down and to the right, using the right-side white stripe as a reference point. This helps maintain your position on the road while still being aware of approaching vehicles. Stay vigilant and be prepared to react quickly if an oncoming vehicle drifts into your lane. Protecting your night vision is essential for safe driving, especially in low-light conditions.