Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Latest news, weather, high school sports for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Why keep headlights on?
Posted: 01.20.2012 at 6:10 PM
Updated: 01.22.2012 at 1:20 PM
Gabrielle Mays

Weekend Anchor/Reporter

0
Photo
HOUGHTON -- With the winter weather causing slippery roads and low visibility, headlights in the daytime can make a difference.
 
Recent studies have shown that daytime running lights or the 24-hour use of regular low-beam headlights can help reduce vehicle crashes.
 
"You know one thing people do forget in the wintertime, especially in snow storms like the one we're having right now, turn your headlights on even during the day so people notice you further away," said Lt. Nick Roberts, Houghton Police Department. 
 
There's a 1 in 22 chance of being in an accident just in this year, and last year there were 282,075 car accidents in the state of Michigan.
   
Officials want to make sure that every driver takes the necessary precautions to stay safe while out on the roads.
 
"With storms, cars are not as noticeable, and if you put your headlights on, it's safer for everybody. So it's kind of a reminder in the wintertime to turn your headlights on even during the day," Roberts said. 
 
Some of the newer cars have automatic headlights, but if yours doesn't, try to make it a habit of turning on your lights as soon as you enter the vehicle, and if that doesn't work, try and write yourself a note and keep it posted in the vehicle as a reminder.
   
Headlights should be turned on one half-hour after sunset and one half-hour before sunrise.
   
For plow truck drivers, officials say plow headlamps should be on, and when the plow is not on the truck, remember to put the regular headlamps back on.
   
Officials also say both headlights should be in working order at all times, and if your headlights aren't on at night, you can receive two points on your license and be fined $115.
 
Popular Stories
Thumbnail
Trial delayed for man accused of spitting in sandwich
Andrew LaCombe  |  Yesterday at 10:35 AM  |  10 comments
Thumbnail
Meth materials found at fire scene
Ty Czarnopis  |  Yesterday at 5:32 PM  |  1 comment
Thumbnail
Man faces prison time after massive pot bust
Andrew LaCombe  |  Yesterday at 11:16 AM  |  3 comments
Follow Upper Michigan's Source
Get news and weather notifications on your phone by downloading the iPhone or Android app below
Sign up to get alerts and updates for breaking news, severe weather, and deals:
submit
ADVERTISEMENT
Check This Out!
Home & Garden
Check out the Home & Garden section of Best Bets.
Live Chats
Check the live chat replays and see a new one Wed.
Best Bets
See what the experts have to say.
Automotive
Check out the Automotive section of Best Bets.
ADVERTISEMENT