When do you use which car lights?

These lights often consist of energy-efficient LED lamps that emit white light. Note that in poor visibility or in tunnels, daytime running lights are not sufficient; in these cases, regular headlights must be used. If your car does not have daytime running lights, you must always switch on the regular headlights.

In darkness, dipped headlights are mandatory. This also applies in poor visibility due to fog, hail, rain, or snow. Dipped headlights ensure that headlights,taillights, and license plate lights are illuminated. They are called dipped headlights because they do not dazzle oncoming traffic.

In extremely poor visibility due to fog, snow, or rain, you may use front fog lights on your car. If visibility drops below 50 meters due to heavy fog or snow, rear fog lights are allowed. Rear fog lights should not be used in heavy rain.

High beam headlights are the most powerful and can be used on empty roads at night, both inside and outside built-up areas, when there is no other traffic nearby. It is not allowed to use high beam to signal other drivers about non-functioning lights, as this can result in a fine of €90.

Position lights ensure that a parked car is visible with taillights, license plate lights, and small lamps. These are required when parking at night or in poor visibility outside built-up areas or on the roadway.

Some facts about vehicle lighting:

• Using fog lights when not allowed can result in a fine of €140 if visibility is more than 50 meters.
• Not carrying spare bulbs for a defective light can result in a fine ranging from €90 to €140.
• When using high beam, dipped headlights, position lights, and front fog lights, rear lights must always be on, except when using rear fog lights.