FEELING BLUE ABOUT THE DARK? LET THE IAM SHED SOME LIGHT ON THE MATTER

#wheelsinwinter

Kiran Devgun from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) shares her advise with motorists travelling in bad weather and in the dark. This week, she is advising drivers about using their car lights more effectively.

Full beam

You should use your full beam when you need the extra vision on an empty dark road. But, if you see a vehicle approaching you in the opposite direction you should dip your headlights as soon as possible.

Dipped headlights

You can use your dipped headlights during both day and night. They are particularly important to use when you are travelling in bad weather to make you visible to others.

Fog lights

If fog is thick enough that you cannot see beyond 100 metres, you must use your fog lights. But don't forget to turn off both your front and rear fog lights once the fog lifts. Fog lights can be quite dazzling to other drivers, and the rear ones hide the effect of brake lights.

Broken light bulbs

It's important you check all the lights are clean and working before you start each journey. If any of them are not working you should get these replaced as soon as possible.

Driving with faulty or broken lights is dangerous and may result in a serious accident – avoid travelling with lights that are not working properly, or you may be prosecuted.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. Kiran Devgun is the communications officer at the IAM
2. The IAM is the UK's largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving and motorcycling. The commercial division of the IAM operates through its occupational driver training company IAM Drive & Survive. The IAM has more than 200 local volunteer groups and over 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, and motorcycling courses. Its policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.

ENDS ALL

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