Got headlights? Use 'em

Headlights, according to the PA Driver's Manual, serve a dual purpose: to help you see and to help you be seen. If I can more easily see your car, I can more easily avoid it when: I'm trying to find a break in traffic to turn, when the sun temporarily blinds me, when I look in my rearview mirror before making a lane change on the highway, when I'm peering through a snow-covered side window.

The manual explicitly states those times when headlights, (not parking lights or running lights), are required, some of which are: when you cannot see because of insufficient light on gray days, in heavy traffic when vehicles may seem to blend in with the surroundings, between sunset and sunrise and when there are unfavorable atmospheric conditions, including rain, snow, sleet, hail, fog, smoke or smog. If your wipers are on, your headlights should be on.

And there is a fine for not using your headlights when required. Look around as you drive. Do most people have their lights on? Then you certainly should too. Who doesn't want to avoid a collision, especially one that ends in a fatality? And it may be as easy as turning on your headlights.

Nancy Tileston
York Township