SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-headlight-high-beam

When must you switch from high beams to low beams for an oncoming car?

When it is within 500 feet.

  1. When it is within 50 feet
  2. When it is within 500 feet ✔
  3. Only when it starts raining

Why: High beams can blind other drivers. Dim them within 500 feet of oncoming traffic, and also when following close behind a car (300 feet in California, 200 in New York).

Huh, didn't know that: If an oncoming car's lights are too bright, look toward the right edge of your lane.

The dad joke
Why did the high beams get in trouble? They were too bright for the situation!
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References

Answer: When it is within 500 feet. High beams can blind other drivers. Dim them within 500 feet of oncoming traffic, and also when following close behind a car (300 feet in California, 200 in New York).

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Section 5: An Introduction to Driving www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/introduction-to-driving
    within 500 feet of a vehicle coming toward you or within 300 feet of a vehicle you are following
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. New York State Driver's Manual, Chapter 10: Special Driving Conditions dmv.ny.gov/new-york-state-drivers-manual-and-practice-tests/chapter-10-special-driving-conditions
    within 500 feet (150 m) of an oncoming vehicle or within 200 feet (60 m) of a vehicle ahead of you
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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