Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Help other drivers see you - Keys to safe driving: see and be seen
One of the most important things you can do to stay safe on the road is make sure that other drivers can see you.
The eye seeks light
The human eye will not pick out an object unless it contrasts with the background. The eye notices light, especially in peripheral vision.
Earlier detection prevents accidents
Lights help you see an oncoming vehicle earlier. That allows you to estimate its distance and speed, which allows you to adjust your driving to prevent a crash.
Daytime running lights work
Canada became the second country to require daytime running lights (after Norway.) In countries that require daytime running lights, daytime crashes have been cut by up to 35 per cent. Studies done by Transport Canada show that drivers meeting a line of traffic are more likely to miss an oncoming car without headlights if it is surrounded by cars with headlights on.
Headlights are even better
Actually turning your headlights on – instead of using just the running lights – provides much more light at the front and back of your vehicle. That makes you visible to drivers in all directions.
Remember clouds and fog
Daytime headlights are even more valuable
on
foggy, cloudy or rainy days when daytime visibility
is reduced.
Keep them clean
Clean your head and tail lights regularly, especially in spring, to make sure you can be seen.
For more information, watch
The 60-Second Driver on CTV, or view the following driving tips
on our website:
- Headlights in Driving Tips
- You can access the 60-Second video on Headlights directly
