|  If
you've ever taken a trip to the USA or Europe, you may have noticed
most cars on the road have lights on during the day.
In fact, many use Daytime Running Lights
(DRLs), which are bright, forward-facing lights, often
fitted below the headlights, and designed to make vehicles more
visible in the day.
It's a practice that can save many lives,
as even on sunny days, unlit vehicles can be difficult to spot.
Research by the NRMA has found four out of five
daytime intersection collisions are caused, in part, by one road
user failing to see another road user in time.
| Click HERE
to read a summary of international studies concerning DRLs |
Overseas studies show that DRL's could
help prevent anywhere between seven and 25 per cent of all fatal
daytime crashes.
The greatest benefits are seen with more severe
accidents, including head-on and intersection crashes, but they
also make approaching vehicles far more visible for pedestrians,
motorcyclists, and cyclists.
Other reported benefits include improved driver
reaction times, and better estimation of speed and distance. DRLs
also make vehicles appear closer, which means drivers are less likely
to make risky manoeuvres at intersections.
While the specially designed DRLs are not yet
a standard feature of all cars, you can still increase your visibility
by using headlights.
How to Use Your Lights
 •
Switch on your low beam headlights, especially if you notice that
other cars using them are more visible than unlit vehicles
• Some vehicles automatically turn off the headlights when
the key is taken out of the ignition. If your car does this, consider
leaving your headlights turned on permanently.
• Don't use fog lights. It is illegal to use them unless visibility
is poor, as they can temporarily blind other motorists
• Avoid using parking lights when moving. They do little to
improve your visibility particularly in bright conditions
Source: The Open Road Magazine / Published by the NRMA
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