When must you turn on your headlights in poor weather conditions?

Turning on your headlights when visibility is less than 500 feet or during adverse weather is crucial for safety. This guideline ensures that your vehicle can be seen by other drivers in conditions such as rain, fog, or heavy snow, where visibility can be significantly reduced. Headlights not only illuminate the road ahead but also help other motorists identify your location and intentions, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

This rule applies more broadly than just at night because poor weather can occur any time of day, impacting visibility significantly. Having your headlights on in such conditions enhances safety for you, your passengers, and other road users. It is a proactive measure that aligns with the principles of defensive driving, prioritizing visibility and awareness on the road.