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The road rule you probably don't know about


Australian drivers can often find themselves confused when it comes to choosing which headlights to use in certain weather conditions.

But many are unaware that a hefty fine can be handed down for the incorrect use of headlights as they can “dazzle” other drivers.

Most cars are fitted with daytime running lights, normal headlights, fog lights and high beams.

Drivers in NSW can be fined $110 and lose two demerit points or $159 in Victoria if they incorrectly use their fog lights.

Many drivers are unaware a fine can be handed down for the incorrect use of fog lights as they can “dazzle” others. Photo: Getty
Many drivers are unaware a fine can be handed down for the incorrect use of fog lights as they can “dazzle” others. Photo: Getty

In Queensland, drivers can cop a $50 fine and lose one demerit point for incorrectly using the lights and in South Australia, the fine is $233.

The VicRoads website says driver should familiarise themselves with each dashboard warning symbols to avoid accidentally switching the fog lights on.

VicRoads says driver should familiarise themselves with each symbol to avoid switching the fog lights on. Photo: Getty
VicRoads says driver should familiarise themselves with each symbol to avoid switching the fog lights on. Photo: Getty

The fog light symbol is similar to the switch for the high and low beams, but has a curved line through the centre.

The fog lights are directed low to the road and are designed to better illuminate in fog, snowfall, rainstorms or dust clouds.

They differ from high beams, which can be used on roads with poor visibility. High beams must not be used if travelling less than 200 metres behind a vehicle travelling in the same direction, or when less than 200 metres from an oncoming vehicle.

The fog light symbol (left) is similar to the switch for the high (right) and low beams, but has a curved line through the centre. Photo: Getty
The fog light symbol (left) is similar to the switch for the high (right) and low beams, but has a curved line through the centre. Photo: Getty