If your headlights illuminate objects only 100 feet ahead, what setting are they likely on?

When your headlights illuminate objects only 100 feet ahead, they are likely on the low beam setting. Low beams are designed to provide adequate visibility while reducing glare for oncoming drivers and do not project light as far as high beams. Typically, low beams illuminate the road about 100 to 150 feet ahead, which makes them appropriate for use in urban settings and during inclement weather when visibility is limited.

High beams, on the other hand, are intended for use in dark, rural areas where there are no oncoming cars, as they can illuminate objects at a much greater distance, usually about 350 to 500 feet. Parking lights do not provide adequate illumination for driving and are used mainly to make a parked vehicle visible to others. When headlights are off, visibility is drastically reduced—making it unsafe to drive. Thus, the best explanation for the 100 feet illumination is that the headlights are on low beam.