If headlights fail while driving, what is the recommended safety step?

• A. Put on hazards, slow down, and leave the road.
• B. Continue driving normally.
• C. Turn on high beams.
• D. Retry turning on the headlights.

Answer: (A)

When headlights fail, the priority is to stop safely and get the vehicle off the active roadway, with hazard lights on to warn other drivers. Headlights are essential for your own visibility and for others to see you, especially in low light or poor weather. Slowing down and moving to the side or shoulder reduces the risk of a crash and keeps you out of the flow of traffic while you address the problem. Continuing to drive without working headlights is dangerous because you may not see hazards, and others may not notice you. Turning on high beams won’t fix the failed headlights, and retrying the headlight switch won’t help if the system has failed, so it’s best to stop in a safe place and seek assistance or repair the issue.