Wisconsin State law Stipulates When Headlights Must Be Turned On

Since the sun rises later and sets earlier in the fall, drivers are required to use their headlights more frequently this time of year to see and be seen because of low light and low visibility conditions.

According to state law, motorists must have their headlights on during the period beginning 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise. Headlights also must be on whenever a driver cannot see a vehicle or person on the roadway at a distance of 500 feet or less.

"For the best visibility, high beams should be used whenever there are no oncoming vehicles. High beams let you see twice as far as low beams," said State Patrol Superintendent David Collins. "However, you must dim your high beams whenever you approach an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet, which is a distance of about one block. High beams also should be dimmed when you are 500 feet or less behind another vehicle or when traffic is heavy. Low beams should be used when driving in fog, snow or heavy rain because the light from high beams will reflect off the precipitation and cause glare for the driver. Don't drive with only your parking lights on. Parking lights are for parking only."

A citation for failing to use headlights when required or failing to dim high beams within 500 feet of another vehicle will cost drivers $148.20 plus three demerit points on their record.

"Besides helping you see the road and other vehicles, headlights also help other drivers see you," Superintendent Collins said. "Remember, if you have trouble seeing other vehicles, then other drivers will have trouble seeing you, so it's wise to turn on your headlights. This is especially true on rainy, snowy or foggy days. A good rule to follow is that if you turn on your windshield wipers, turn on your headlights."