The rain storm getting ready to hit Southern California should act as a reminder to all of us to turn on our vehicle headlights when the windshield wipers are on continuously. Not only is this a safer way to travel on the roadways, it’s the law!
Since July 2005, California motorists have been required to turn on headlights in inclement weather, which Section 24400 of the California Vehicle Code defines in two ways.
The first definition is a "condition that prevents a driver of a motor vehicle from clearly discerning a person or another motor vehicle on the highway from a distance of 1,000 feet."
The second definition describes inclement weather as a "condition requiring the windshield wipers to be in continuous use due to rain, mist, snow, fog, or other precipitation or atmospheric moisture."
Some drivers may not understand why this law is so important. The intent of the law is to make your vehicle more visible to other drivers while on the roadway. The limited visibility that rain, fog or snow can cause to drivers on the roadway can be reduced by simply turning on your headlights. Not only will this help your vehicle be seen by other drivers it will also assist you with seeing the roadway.
The Simi Valley Police Department would like to offer these additional tips for winter driving safety:
Slow down. Your vehicle can't stop as fast or turn as accurately on wet pavement.
Check to see if your windshield wipers are in good condition.
Prepare by leaving early and allow yourself plenty of time to get where you are going during wet weather conditions.
Always wear your seat belt and never drive while impaired.
# # #
