Ask Honest John Question of the Week: Why are so many drivers using full headlights in the daytime?

David Ross, Editor
Fri, 06 Sept 2024

Dear Honest John,

"Why is there a plague of car drivers driving in good daytime viability using full headlights? This habit is a minor irritation with old fashioned headlights but is a massive issue with the dazzling potential of xenon and LED systems."

- MM

Dear MS,

There is no law against using full headlights in daylight - assuming they are not dazzling other drivers of course - in fact a European study concluded that using dipped headlights at all times can reduce the chances of being involved in a collision by as much as 30%.

Rule 226 of the Highway Code states that you must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, which would account for use in the daytime in poor weather including rain.

However, incorrectly adjusted headlights can be a significant distraction particularly with higher-powered LED arrangements.

The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 Part III Regulation 27 states 'No person shall use, or cause or permit to be used, on a road any vehicle on which any lamp, hazard warning signal device or warning beacon of a type specified...Headlamp - Used so as to cause undue dazzle or discomfort to other persons using the road.

Drivers may be using the automatic setting on headlights which is causing them to be illuminated more frequently, or may not even be aware that they are switched on as the majority of cars will automatically turn off headlights when the vehicle is switched off. Unfortunately it is down to the individual to ensure their lights are correctly aligned, unless the police crack down on drivers who dazzle.

Ask HJ

Is it illegal to use front fog lights when there is no fog?

Driving at night, I notice an increasing number of drivers clearly using their fog lights as an extra set of headlights when there is no fog anywhere to be seen - is this usage legal ?

Rule 236 of the Highway Code states 'You MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced (see Rule 226) as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves.' Potentially this could result in the issue of a fixed penalty notice if stopped by the police, but unfortunately this is a rare occurrence.

Answered by David Ross

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