Vehicles have different types of car lights, and it can become confusing for some drivers as to when to use them during various conditions and scenarios. Car lights include dipped headlights, parking or side lights, rear and front fog lights, full headlights, and brake lights. Some vehicle even has automatic daytime running lights.
To understand car lights better than before, here are the different types of automotive lights and their uses.
The third level of car lights and the more potent as compared to the parking/side and dipped headlights are the full headlights. When it's turned on, there will be a blue light symbol found on the dashboard signifying it's currently in use.
Full headlights can aid in letting drivers see better while driving in very dark locations, especially when there are no street lights or reflective markings on the road. Since these car lights have an intense beam, it is advisable not to use them in well-lit areas, as well as when meeting or following traffic.
Each vehicle should have at least two brake lights that are fully functional. When taking a driving exam, you need to check that two out of the three brake lights are working well.
Brake lights will automatically light up whenever you press the brakes. This type of car light will warn anyone behind you of your intention to slow down. Proper maintenance is vital to check if these lights are still functioning well. You can seek the help of another individual to check if your car's brake lights are working, or you can try reversing to a nearby glass window.
These lights should only be used under heavy foggy conditions as visibility becomes very poor. Fog lights are very powerful. Thus, it can be dangerous if you shine them on oncoming vehicles when they aren't needed. Aside from fog, you can also use fog lights under snowfall. Some vehicles can activate fog lights with the press of a button, while other models might have a switch located near the control for the dipped headlights.
Some automobiles will have fog lights on both the front and rear portions of the vehicle, whereas other will just have back fog lights.
Side or parking lights are the first levels of lights once you start turning the car light switch on, and they do have a reasonable intensity level. These lights won't blind a person as much as fog lights, and they're traditionally used to aid in parking your vehicle in dimly lit areas.
Drivers can also use side or parking lights during the day, but some very dark conditions might require you to beef up the intensity by relying on dipped headlights.
Turn the switch for the parking or side car lights one level further and you can gain access to the dipped headlights. These lights are the second tier regarding intensity. Many drivers call upon the aid of these car lights to help them drive during standard nighttime conditions. These lights are also slightly dipped so as not to blind other road users momentarily.
It is advised to turn the dipped headlights off after using them so as not to let the battery of your vehicle die.
Many cars, trucks, and buses made in modern times will have lights that automatically turn on whenever the automobile moves forward. The intensity of automatic daytime running lights won't help you gain better visibility, but it'll make your car more visible to other drivers.
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