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Using low beams during the daytime keeps roadways safer

Lake Cowichan - A recent letter by Mr. Stu Walker states drivers should refrain from using their low beam headlights during daytime driving. This could not be further from the truth.

Suggesting drivers drive with only their park lights on (his statement to pull the light switch out only one position, not two) is a dangerous recommendation. This makes the vehicle much more difficult to spot, and more likely to be involved in an accident.Studies have proven that vehicles using low beam headlights during daytime hours have a lower accident rate. Accidents are reduced by making these vehicles appear closer, faster, larger and more imposing to other drivers. Other drivers are less likely to unsafely pull out in front of them. Low beam headlights will also activate your rear lights making you much more visible to those following and reduce your risk of a rear end collision (the most frequently reported collision).I would suggest that if Mr. Walker finds these lights distracting he is much too easily distracted.Most professional drivers will agree that using low beam headlights during daytime driving is a no brainer in reducing accidents and staying safe on the road.One more point of interest is the fact ICBC, in their drivers' handbook, also recommends always using low beam headlights during daylight hours. For Mr. Walker's, and everybody else information this handbook is available free of charge from ICBC.I would like to suggest to each and every driver that you turn on your low beam headlights each time you start your car.This is one small thing we can all do at no cost to keep our roadways safer.Glenn SprouleLake Cowichan