Headlights, Horns, and Hazards: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe on the Road This Holiday Season

Time with family is a hallmark of the Holiday season. For many people, that means extra time on the road. The more time you spend in the car, the greater the chances are that you’ll wind up in an accident. Here’s what you need to know about using your vehicle’s headlights and horn to stay safe as you travel.

Headlights for safety

Did you know that 31% of car accidents occur after dark? But the highest number occur between the hours of 3 and 6 p.m. Whether you’re driving in the city or the country, headlights can actually be helpful during the day, too, especially when you’re dealing with fog or gray, rainy weather.

The general rules to follow include:
• Turning your headlights on anytime between sunset and sunrise.
• Using your lights any other time that it’s dark enough to hinder you from seeing a person wearing dark clothing within 100 yards.

Using your high beams

It’s a good idea to use your high beams most of the time when driving in the dark – even when you’re driving in an area with street lights. Switch to your low beams when you’re within 200 yards of an oncoming vehicle or you’re following another car within 200 yards.

Using the horn

Contrary to popular belief, your vehicle isn’t equipped with a horn so you can express your frustration at the slow-poke you’re stuck behind.

Here’s when it’s appropriate to use your horn:
• You need to warn another vehicle that you’re approaching.
• You want to scare animals off the road.
• It’s a part of your anti-theft system.

When are hazard lights appropriate?

There are certain situations in which you should use your hazard lights.
• You’re stopped (for any number of reasons) in the path of other vehicles.
• There’s an issue that’s causing you to drive more slowly than is appropriate for the roadway you’re traveling on.
• You’re stopped in an emergency stopping lane.
• You’re driving in extreme, hazardous weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow.
• They’re a part of your car’s anti-theft system.

Are your headlights, hazards, and horn are ready for travel?

If you’re taking to the road this holiday season, make sure you’re following these tips to keep you, your passengers, and other motorists safe. It’s a good idea to have your vehicle’s lights checked over periodically. You also need to have your horn looked at if it stops working or otherwise seems like it isn’t working correctly. Make an appointment to come and see us at Conrad’s. We want you to stay safe as you travel this holiday and winter season.

Visit a Conrad’s Tire Express & Total Car Care Location near you today!

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