In Australia, incorrect use of high beam headlights carry with it a risk of attracting a $140 fine because of the temporary blindness these headlights inflict on other road users as well as the increased chances of a road accident occurring. This article attempts to document the various laws, indicate frequent blunders, demonstrate consequences, and offer common-sense suggestions aimed at safe driving, using sources like the National Road Traffic Rules and experts on road safety.
The Rules For Using High Beams
The Australia Road Rules dictates the use high beam headlights to be turned off at a distance range of 200 meters to another vehicle, be it an oncoming vehicle, one parked, or one traveling in the same line and orientation of the car. The use of high beams in apposition of the previous sentence is considered an offense, and it is punishable with a fine or a charge of reckless driving of $140 and possibly demerit points, depending on the regulations set forth in the corresponding state.
Penalties for Incorrect Use of High Beam
| Offense Type | Fine Amount | Demerit Points | Rule Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Improper High Beam Use | $140 | 1-2 | 218 (1)(a/b) |
| Wrongful Fog Light Use | $305 | 1 | 218-1 (a) |
| Flashing High Beam (Hindering) | $112 – $2200 | 1 | State Police Act |
Why Improper Use is a Problem
Illuminating country roads or highways is one of the major uses of high beams headlights as it enhances visibility. But unnecessary use of high beam headlights in the presence of other road users and using them at the wrong places causes high chances of temporary blindness and disorientation, which slows the ability of a driver to react, thus resulting in a higher chance of accident, ditching of the vehicle, or crashing. This is especially the case with vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists because of the high glare.
Enforcement and Education
In Australia, the Police do patrol in a systematic manner concentrating on the use of headlights, and specially with by night. Even if you have a lot a of fines in your driving history, state transport officials are more interested in informing you about the responsible use of high beams through education programs. These programs teach the public to “Think, Don’t be Diagonal.”
Country Roads and the Use of High Beams
This worsens in the more rural and remote areas, where a lot of high beams are needed for safety and keeping visibility on the road in the dark. The same basic rules remain in effect, and there is still a lot of caution and courtesy that is needed in rural driving. It is now illegal, and certainly reckless, to fail to dip high beams to oncoming when vehicles are about.
Staying Halfway to Fines and Staying Safe
It is the overlooking the simple initudes that is the most common. A controller can have thousands of dollars of fines on it, yet the most basic driving rules are neglected.
1. When are high beams to be switched off?
High beams are to be switched off when within 200 meters of another vehicle, either on the same street or when approaching perpendicular to you.
2. What is the fine for high beams incorrectly used?
The fine is 140orserveyourdrivingfine,andthebasefineisnow100.
3. Do cities or rural areas tend to encounter high beam misuse more?
High beam misuse happens more often on dark countryside roads, but it is illegal everywhere with any nearby vehicles.
4. Could high beam misuse impact license?
Having several infractions concerning licenses and points may potentially lead to the possibility of suspension.
