The frequent weather changes can become tricky to ascertain how the weather will be when you are heading out in your car. Rain, fog, storms, and other weather conditions can make it very difficult, if not impossible to drive in. If your vehicle isn’t equipped with the right kind of lights, driving with low visibility may turn fatal for you and others. In such a situation, adding floodlights to your car can be a perfect solution.
Do you often drive in low visibility weather conditions and feel the regular headlights are not sufficient? Do you want to add floodlights to your vehicle? Keep reading to find out everything about using floodlights during extreme weather conditions.
What are floodlights?
If you’re unaware of the concept of floodlights, let’s first find out what they are. While every car comes equipped with conventional lights, they sometimes are not meant for specific situations. They tend to lead to problems while driving on the road. On account of this, it has become imperative to get your car equipped with the right kind of lights, like floodlights, to prevent any fatal accidents.
As the name goes, floodlights are lights for your car that offer better light to help you navigate your way during low visibility. Ideally, people assemble them below the headlight to form a wide beam of light, like a bar. It helps you see clearer and better in situations of fog, rain, or even storm. They are additional lights, and you can use them in addition to the regular ones. They are ideal for challenging weather conditions as they are dust-proof and water-resistant.
You can even get a roof rack flood light to not only make it easier to find your way but also protect your car and luggage.
When should you use floodlights?
Given the intense weather conditions prevailing these days, more and more car owners feel the need for additional lights to navigate. If you have been having a hard time driving during low visibility, you can use floodlights. Here are a few situations where you can use them:
1. Fog
Fog is nothing but a giant cloud on the floor because it forms the same way clouds do. It can obstruct your vision and lead to crashes on the road. Manufacturers make floodlights especially for situations like these when you traverse through foggy areas. They have a low placement, enabling them to produce a light that hits the ground underneath, rather than going straight into fog or bouncing back the light from the headlamps.
2. Rain
The cloud floodlights are also great for use during heavy and intense rains. They ensure better visibility on roads filled with water during heavy rainfall. The floodlights produce high and low beams, which produces a glare to prevent the chances of any mishap during the rain.
3. Storm
A storm can occur suddenly and make it challenging for you to drive. While it is wise not to keep driving during a storm, you will have to get the vehicle to the point of safety until you wait for the storm to pass. In this scenario, floodlights will come to your rescue, since they illuminate only the part of the road directly in front of you, they can help you see the road clearly.
Is it legal to use floodlights when there is no fog or rain?
While the name suggests that floodlights can only be used in heavy rain or floods – you can also use them during other situations with low visibility, like fog. But, you must be well-aware of the road rules about the use of floodlights in your location. A few US states restrict the use of floodlights or other auxiliary lights when other vehicles are on the road, except in extreme situations. Besides that, many states also regulate the colour of floodlights that you can use in your car. Make sure you check all the rules and regulations of your particular area before you use floodlights.
What tips must you follow to drive safely?
If you are driving in a situation when there is low visibility like fog, rain, or storm, you must keep the following tips in mind:
- Always check the mirror and slow down your pace.
- Maintain a greater distance between yours and the car in front of you.
- Roll down the windows to listen for approaching traffic or any announcements.
- Don’t use full beam as fog only reflects the light, further reducing the visibility.
- If you cannot see anything ahead, it is wise to stop until it feels safe to continue.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a seasoned driver or only beginning to learn driving, you must know that weather conditions can make the task extremely challenging. If your area is prone to fog, rain, or storms, it is wise to invest in floodlights.
