Question

Difficulty: MediumConsideration for Vulnerable Road Users

When following a cyclist or horse rider along an unlit road at night, you should keep your headlights on main beam so that they can see the road ahead more clearly.

Answer: Answer

Answer

False. Drivers must keep headlights dipped when following cyclists, horse riders, or any other road users to prevent dazzling them or startling animals.
The statement is false because The Highway Code specifies that drivers must keep headlights dipped when following other road users, including cyclists and horse riders, to avoid dazzling them or frightening horses.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the hazard and vulnerable road user context
Identified that cyclists and horse riders are particularly vulnerable to sudden changes in light and glare when travelling at night.
Anticipating the effects of vehicle controls on other road users is essential for safe driving.
2
Apply Highway Code rules on lighting and dazzle
Highway Code Rule 114 states drivers must not use headlights in a way that dazzles other road users, including those being followed.
Main beam reflects strongly in rear-view mirrors and blinds users ahead, while sudden bright light can panic horses.
3
Evaluate the statement validity
The statement asserts that keeping main beam on is correct practice, which directly contradicts safety rules.
The correct action is to switch to dipped headlights until safely past.

Key Concept

Consideration and lighting rules when following vulnerable road users at night
Estimated Time:45s
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