Low level lighting

To add to the discussion regarding daytime lights, I used to drive with front foglights on, but recently a Police car drove up beside me at traffic lights and the officer asked why I had my lights on as it “looked odd”. He insisted I turn them off, which of course, I did. Now, I use my headlights, dipped to the maximum using the beam-height adjuster switch. At night, I simply re-adjust the setting. This seems to work without blinding oncoming drivers. I think DRLs signal to pedestrians that a car is 'On' and moving, rather than 'Off' and stationary. I have no evidence to support this hunch, however.

Asked on 31 July 2010 by PS, Doncaster

Answered by Honest John
From next year police won't be able to do you for this because many EC required LED DRLs are already fitted in the positions where foglights were traditionally placed. (Commission Directive 2008/89/EC of 24 September 2008 amending, Council Directive 76/756/EEC.) For example: Mercedes W212 E Class, Renault Megane, Toyota Auris hybrid, Porsche Cayman. Unfortunately Xenons are automatically self-adjusting, so Xenon drivers cannot be as socially considerate as you are. But that's a good tip. Many thanks.
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