Nova Scotia Driving Test Practice: Ace your driving test

When should you not use your high-beam lights?

1. When driving in heavy fog

2. When there is oncoming traffic or when driving behind another vehicle

3. When driving in rural areas

4. When on a one-way street

The correct answer is: When there is oncoming traffic or when driving behind another vehicle

Using high-beam lights significantly increases your visibility at night or in low-light conditions, but certain situations require switching to low-beam lights for safety and courtesy. In the case of oncoming traffic or when driving behind another vehicle, high beams can create glare, impairing the vision of other drivers. This is particularly important when approaching another vehicle, as the bright light can momentarily blind the driver, leading to dangerous situations. Similarly, when you're following another vehicle closely at night, your high beams can reflect off the vehicle’s mirrors and further reduce the driver's visibility. Therefore, it is critical to use low-beam lights in these situations to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. This principle aligns with safe driving practices and responsible vehicle operation in a shared environment.