When should a driver utilize high beams?

Utilizing high beams is appropriate on dark roads when there is no oncoming traffic. High beams increase visibility significantly, illuminating the road further ahead and helping the driver spot hazards that could be difficult to see with standard low beams. This is especially beneficial on poorly lit country roads or highways where fewer streetlights are present.

In contrast, using high beams in well-lit urban areas can lead to excessive glare for other drivers and reduce overall safety. Similarly, high beams are not suitable during heavy rain or fog, as they can reflect off precipitation or fog particles, creating a blinding effect and making visibility worse instead of better. Therefore, the correct circumstances for using high beams are specifically when the road is dark, and there are no vehicles close enough to be a risk from the added brightness.