When is it acceptable to drive with your headlights on high beam?

Driving with your headlights on high beam is appropriate in open country or rural areas when there are no other vehicles nearby. This is because high beams provide a significantly brighter light that can help illuminate the road ahead, improving visibility in dark or unlit areas. When there are no cars approaching, using high beams allows drivers to see further and more clearly, promoting safer driving conditions.

In contrast, using high beams in urban areas can create glare for other drivers and pedestrians, reducing safety. While it might be tempting to use them at any time, doing so can be disruptive when there are other cars on the road. Moreover, using high beams only during the day would not maximize their effectiveness, as their purpose is to enhance visibility in low-light conditions, typically at night. Thus, high beams should be primarily reserved for situations where they can provide the most benefit without negatively affecting others on the road.