High Beams
If there is one thing I love, it is the hit song Blinded by the Light, which was written by Bruce Springsteen (A.K.A. The Boss). If there is one thing I hate, it is being blinded by the light: especially while driving! Let’s see what The Boss has to say about this dangerous driving behavior.
Using your high beams at night is a great idea when you want increased visibility. The projected light makes it easier to see Further on (up the road). However, they can cause real Trouble in Paradise for other motorists. Bright lights can cause temporary blindness, Sad Eyes, and confusion when shined directly in another driver’s windshield.
Not only is it unsafe to shine your high beams Out in the Street, but it is also a violation of the Maryland Motor Vehicle Law. In fact, you can receive a 60 dollar fine if you fail to lower your high beams within 300 feet of a vehicle you are approaching from the rear. This fine increases to 70 dollars if you do not lower your high beams within 500 feet of approaching another motorist from the front.
Speaking of bright Party Lights, you may think that using bright aftermarket lights on your Pink Cadillac is a good idea, but it isn’t. The citation for glaring and dazzling lights is also 70 dollars.
Whether you have trouble seeing or just want the added visibility while you Drive All Night, be sure to lower your high beams when you are sharing the road with other motorists. You may think those lights are giving you a Brilliant Disguise, but in reality, they are causing trouble for everyone else. Besides, the last thing you want to do is cause a crash and have to sing “I’m on Fire”!
(How many Bruce Springsteen references were you able to find?)
Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org