When to use your headlights
Listed below are the three main offences in Queensland that relate to incorrectly using your headlights.
- Using lights on a vehicle that dazzle other road users (QLD Road Rules s219)
One point and $64 fine
- Failing to dip high-beam headlights when travelling behind another vehicle or for an oncoming vehicle (QLD Road Rules s218(1))
One point and $64 fine
- Failing to have lights on vehicle lit at night or in hazardous conditions (QLD Road Rules s215(1))
One point and $161 fine
Is it illegal to flash headlights at other drivers?
In short, no.
However, on Queensland roads it is illegal to flash your high-beam headlights at other drivers within 200m. If you are caught doing so, police could issue you a $64 fine and one demerit point.
So when should you use your lights?
In Queensland, you must switch on your headlights, taillights and number plate lights when you are driving either at night, or in bad weather that reduces visibility (such as heavy rainfall).
You are not allowed to have your high beam headlights on if another vehicle is closer than 200m to you regardless of whether you are following them, or if they are heading towards you.
Fog lights should only be used at night or in the day time during heavy fog or other hazardous weather. Drivers are not allowed to use fog lights in good weather conditions, regardless of the time of day.
It is also illegal to drive your car if one or neither of your headlights work. It is a law that all vehicles on Queensland roads comply with vehicle standard requirements, including two working headlights. Failure to comply with this legislation could result in a $161 fine and one demerit point.
For further information, please visit TMR's website.
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