When driving towards another vehicle at night, how close can you get before you must 'dip' your headlights?

Dipping your headlights is an important practice when driving at night, particularly when approaching another vehicle. The correct distance to dip your headlights - in this case, 200 metres - is based on the need to prevent blinding the driver of the oncoming vehicle. High beam headlights can be significantly bright and may impair the vision of other drivers if used improperly, creating a potential safety hazard.

Maintaining a distance of 200 metres allows enough space for you to signal to the other driver that you are approaching, while also minimizing any discomfort from glare. This practice is not only considerate but also mandated by road safety regulations, emphasizing the importance of visibility and safety for all road users during nighttime driving.

The other distances listed, such as 50 metres, 100 metres, and 300 metres, do not align with the stipulated guidelines for when to dip headlights. The shorter distances may not provide sufficient time for the other driver to adjust, while the longer distance may exceed the necessary precaution. Selecting the appropriate distance is essential for ensuring that nighttime driving remains safe for everyone on the road.