What should you do when driving at night and you see oncoming headlights?

When driving at night, it is essential to ensure that both your safety and the safety of other drivers are prioritized. Dimming your headlights when you see oncoming traffic is the correct action because it prevents blinding other drivers who may be approaching. High beams can significantly reduce the visibility of oncoming drivers, as they can create extreme brightness that makes it difficult for them to see clearly.

Using your low beams allows you to illuminate the road ahead without causing discomfort or impairment to others. This consideration not only fosters a safer road environment but is also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, including Florida.

While some might mistakenly think that keeping high beams on maximizes their own visibility, doing so compromises the safety of those traveling in the opposite direction. Similarly, fog lights are designed for low visibility conditions caused by fog, rain, or snow but are not suitable for general night driving or when approaching oncoming traffic. Closing your eyes briefly is not a safe or practical response in any driving situation.