Don't Go Blind: Karnataka Police To Tackle High-Beam Headlight Use Starting July
The Karnataka state police will begin a special campaign against vehicles using high-beam from July. Drivers will be booked under section 177 of the Indian Motor Vehicles Act. This decision follows observations that such lights increase the risk of accidents, particularly at night.
Alok Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (Traffic and Road Safety), Karnataka, issued a memo on Tuesday. It highlighted that many vehicles, especially heavy motor vehicles like lorries, trucks, and buses, use "dazzling and glaring" LED headlights. These lights impair the vision of drivers in the opposite lane, compromising their ability to drive safely.

Public Complaints and Safety Concerns
Kumar noted that while it is not definitively recorded that high-beam headlights cause accidents, it remains a possibility. "Glaring lights could be an extraneous factor that could cause another vehicle to get into a crash, especially two-wheelers in the night," he told DH. Several public complaints have also been raised regarding this issue.
To address this concern, Kumar directed all unit officers, including Superintendents of Police across all districts, Police Commissioners, and the Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) in Bengaluru city. They are to ensure strict action against vehicles using glaring headlights that violate the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
Penalties for Offenders
Under section 177 of the Indian Motor Vehicles Act, drivers found using such headlights can be fined Rs 500 for the first offence. For subsequent offences, the fine can go up to Rs 1,000. The enforcement aims to enhance road safety by reducing potential hazards caused by high-beam lights.
This initiative underscores the commitment of Karnataka's traffic police to improve road safety conditions. By addressing the issue of glaring headlights, they aim to mitigate one of the factors contributing to nighttime accidents.

DriveSpark Thinks
The emphasis on educating drivers about the correct use of headlights is a crucial step in promoting responsible driving habits and reducing the risk of accidents. By providing clear guidelines and enforcing penalties for non-compliance, the memo aims to create a culture of safety and consideration on the roads.
Through this proactive initiative, Alok Kumar demonstrates a commitment to addressing public concerns and improving overall road safety. By encouraging drivers to be more mindful of their actions behind the wheel, the memo sets a positive example for promoting a safer driving environment for all.


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