ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions about the rules of the road every week, helping Orlando-area residents become better drivers by being better educated.
A viewer on Thursday asked, “Whenever you are talking about rain or inclement weather you always say ‘Don’t rely on the auto setting’ on your lights ... why?”
In today’s era of advanced technology, many modern vehicles come equipped with automatic light settings, designed to make driving safer and more convenient. However, relying too heavily on this feature can create dangerous situations, especially when drivers assume their lights are properly illuminated when they are not.
I’ve observed countless drivers traveling at night who appear to assume their lights are on, only to discover their vehicles are barely visible due to a lack of proper illumination. This is a critical issue that calls for a return to personal responsibility behind the wheel.
The issue with automatic lights
While automatic headlights are a helpful feature, they are not foolproof. Different vehicles have varying settings for these lights, and the systems don’t always function as expected. For instance:
- Daytime Running Lights (DRLs): Many vehicles are equipped with DRLs, which are dimly lit and only illuminate the front of the vehicle. Drivers often mistake these for full headlights, leaving the rear of the vehicle completely dark.
- Sensor limitations: Automatic systems may fail to activate lights during certain low-light conditions, such as fog, heavy rain, or during twilight hours.
- Manual override confusion: Some drivers aren’t familiar with how to manually adjust their light settings, assuming the “auto” function is always sufficient.
Legal requirements for lights
Laws across most jurisdictions require drivers to use their vehicle lights during low-light hours, including dawn, dusk, and night, as well as during inclement weather such as rain, fog, or snow. Relying on automatic settings alone can put you at risk of breaking the law and, more importantly, compromising your safety and the safety of others on the road.
A simple solution: Manual responsibility
The solution to this issue is straightforward: take control of your vehicle’s lighting. When conditions require, manually turn on your headlights to ensure both the front and rear of your vehicle are properly lit. Doing so not only complies with legal requirements but also enhances visibility for yourself and for other drivers.
Tips for ensuring proper illumination
- Know your vehicle: Familiarize yourself with the light settings in your car. Check the owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
- Test your lights: Periodically check that both your front and rear lights are functioning properly.
- Don’t assume “auto” covers everything: When in doubt, switch to manual mode and turn on your headlights.
- Stay aware: Pay attention to the road and weather conditions and adjust your lighting accordingly.
A call to action
The convenience of technology is no substitute for human responsibility. While automatic lights can assist, they are not a guarantee of safety. As drivers, it’s up to us to ensure our vehicles are properly illuminated at all times.
Let’s make the roads safer by taking the simple step of manually turning on our lights when necessary. Don’t leave it to chance — your safety, and that of others, depends on it.
If you have a traffic question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.
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