When You Can (and Can't) Use Your High Beams in New York State

Okay, I've finally had it. If I have to drive at night one more time and be completely blinded by some yahoo who needs high beams powered by the sun, I might just fully move to public transportation.

I know I'm not alone with this either, so how legal is it really to use your high beams in New York State?

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When Can You Use Your High Beams?

High Beams are meant for driving down long, isolating roads with no extra lighting. They can be very useful while navigating backroads, but some folks have gotten WAYYYYYYY too comfortable using them at any given moment, causing nearby drivers to be unable to see.

Credit: Canva

According to the New York State DMV, headlights must be on low beam when you are at least 500 feet from an oncoming vehicle, or 200 feet when behind a vehicle (even if they're not in the same lane as you). If a driver refuses to follow this (of which there are plenty), flash your high beams quickly, and move your eyes to the right to follow the road edge so you have an idea of where you're going.

Other Headlight Rules You Should Follow

Even outside of high beam use, many drivers do not follow the proper etiquette while driving at night. Your low beams are meant to be on from 30 minutes before sundown to 30 minutes before sunset. You must also be using them when your windshield wipers are active to clear rain, sleet, or snow.

The DMV also recommends turning off all lights within your car while you drive, and dimming your dash display. While not illegal, it makes visibility much easier, allowing you to arrive where you're heading safely.

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Source: Tired Of Being Blinded On The Road? What’s The Legality Of High Beams In New York?

Filed Under: headlights

Categories: Around Albany