Final answer:
To ensure safety and avoid blinding other drivers, typically you must switch to low-beam headlights within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle, but this can vary by jurisdiction.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to traffic safety rules, it is important to use headlights properly to ensure both your safety and the safety of other drivers. When approaching an oncoming vehicle, the law typically requires drivers to dim their high-beams to avoid blinding other drivers. Although the specific distance can vary by jurisdiction, a commonly adopted standard is switching to low-beam headlights within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle.
If you see a car driving toward you, it's crucial to ensure that your high-beams are not impeding their visibility, which is why maintaining the appropriate distance before using high-beams is stressed in driver's education and traffic safety regulations. Not adhering to these safety rules could lead to dangerous driving conditions and potential legal consequences. Always refer to your local traffic laws to confirm the exact distance required in your area.