Improper Headlight Use: What if it Leads to a Fort Worth Crash?

Crashes caused by headlights are on the rise in Texas and across the country. In part, this is due to the newer, brighter lights blinding drivers in their path. Failing to use headlights at all is another issue that makes it harder to see a vehicle. Both situations increase the risk of a Fort Worth traffic accident.

Was your crash caused by another driver’s improper headlight use? At Anderson & Cummings, we look at how Texas law defines headlight use and what can go wrong when drivers ignore the law.

Need Legal help? Our law firm is dedicated to helping injured victims in Fort Worth and holding responsible parties liable. We have a successful track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients, and we are prepared to help you seek the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Request a FREE Case Review Today. Call: (817) 920-9000.

How Do Headlight-Related Crashes Happen?

Headlight-related crashes occur when drivers fail to use them properly. Headlights that malfunction may also contribute to a collision. Crashes caused by headlights are often due to inadequate lighting, blinding oncoming drivers, or misjudged visibility. In Fort Worth, where diverse driving conditions are common, it is essential you understand how to recognize and mitigate these issues to help prevent accidents.

Headlight Glare

Headlight glare is a prevalent and dangerous issue on roads, particularly on well-lit streets or highways. This problem arises when drivers use high beams improperly or when their headlights are misaligned. High beams are designed to illuminate the road ahead more brightly but can create severe glare if used incorrectly, blinding oncoming drivers. This glare significantly reduces the visibility of other drivers, making it challenging to see the road, other vehicles, or obstacles. The result is a higher risk of accidents. High beams should be reserved for dark, rural areas where there is minimal oncoming traffic. In urban settings or when other vehicles are nearby, drivers should use low beams to avoid creating hazardous conditions for others.

Faulty Headlights

Faulty or malfunctioning headlights present another serious safety concern. Headlights that are dim, flickering, or inconsistent in brightness can drastically impair a driver’s ability to see clearly. Reduced visibility makes it harder to spot road hazards, other vehicles, and important road signs, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Faulty headlights can stem from various issues, including worn-out bulbs, electrical problems, or damaged headlight assemblies. To mitigate this risk, drivers should conduct regular maintenance checks on their headlights and address any issues promptly. Ensuring that headlights are functioning correctly is essential for safe driving, especially in low-light conditions.

Incorrect Headlight Use

Incorrect use of headlights is a common yet often overlooked cause of accidents. One frequent issue is failing to turn on headlights during conditions of low visibility, such as fog, rain, or night-time driving. In Fort Worth, where weather conditions can be unpredictable, proper headlight use is crucial for maintaining visibility and safety. For example, driving in foggy conditions without using headlights or fog lights can severely limit visibility and make it difficult for other drivers to see you. Similarly, not using headlights at night can reduce your ability to see the road clearly and be seen by others. It is important for drivers to use headlights appropriately according to current driving conditions to prevent accidents.

Headlight Misalignment

Misalignment of headlights can lead to a dangerous driving situation. When headlights are not properly aligned, they may cast light in unintended directions, either blinding oncoming drivers or failing to adequately illuminate the road ahead. This misalignment can occur due to vehicle impacts, worn suspension components, or improper adjustments. Properly aligned headlights ensure that the light is directed where it is needed most, enhancing visibility and reducing glare for other drivers. Regularly checking and adjusting headlights, particularly after any vehicle repairs or collisions, is essential for maintaining road safety. Ensuring that headlights are correctly aligned can help prevent accidents and improve overall driving conditions.

Do I Have Legal Options if Improper Headlight Use Caused My Crash?

Victims of accidents caused by headlight-related negligence may be eligible to take legal action to seek compensation for their damages. This may involve filing a personal injury claim or seeking damages through the court system. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help navigate the complexities of these cases and ensure that victims receive appropriate compensation.

What Are Texas Laws on Headlight Use

In Texas, drivers must adhere to specific laws regarding headlight use. Understanding these laws can help prevent accidents and legal issues:

Headlights Must Be Used Between Sunset and Sunrise

Texas law requires drivers to use headlights from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise. This regulation helps ensure visibility during low-light conditions.

Use of High Beams

Drivers must dim their high beams when approaching an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet or when following another vehicle within 300 feet. This rule is designed to reduce glare and enhance safety.

Headlights in Adverse Weather

In conditions such as rain, fog, or snow, drivers are required to use headlights to improve visibility. Fog lights can also be used in foggy conditions to reduce glare and enhance the driver’s view.

Tips for Proper Headlight Use

Crashes caused by headlights can be greatly reduced by following the laws about how and when they should be used.

Here are a few tips that could also help:

• Regular Maintenance: Regularly check your headlights for proper function and alignment. Replace bulbs as soon as they start to dim or burn out. Consider professional inspections if you notice any issues with your lighting system.
• Adjust Headlight Aim: Properly aligned headlights ensure that the light is directed correctly, reducing glare for other drivers and improving your visibility. Most vehicles have a headlight adjustment feature, or you can have this done by a professional.
• Use Headlights Appropriately: Always use low beams when driving in well-lit areas and switch to high beams only in dark, rural areas when no other vehicles are around. Remember to dim your high beams when approaching or following another vehicle.
• Clean Headlights Regularly: Dirt and grime can reduce the effectiveness of headlights. Regularly clean your headlights to maintain optimal performance and visibility.

Who May Be Liable if the Improper Use of Headlights Caused My Texas Car Crash?

In Texas, as in many other states, the failure to use headlights appropriately can have serious legal implications if it leads to a collision. Understanding liability in such cases is essential for both drivers and victims. Here’s a detailed look at how liability is determined for accidents caused by failing to use headlights properly in Texas.

Determining Liability in Headlight-Related Collisions

Liability in collisions caused by the failure to use headlights is often determined based on negligence principles. To establish liability, several factors must be considered:

• Duty of Care: Every driver has a duty of care to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. This includes using headlights in accordance with Texas regulations. If a driver fails to turn on their headlights during required conditions, they breach this duty, potentially making them liable for any resulting accidents.
• Breach of Duty: A breach occurs when a driver does not fulfill their duty of care. In the context of headlights, this could be failing to use headlights during low-light conditions, adverse weather, or when approaching other vehicles. The failure to act as a reasonable driver would in similar circumstances constitutes a breach of duty.
• Causation: To hold a driver liable, it must be proven that their failure to use headlights was a direct cause of the collision. This involves showing that the accident would not have occurred if the headlights had been used appropriately. For example, if a driver’s inability to see due to the lack of headlights leads to a collision, causation is established.
• Damages: Finally, damages must be assessed. This includes the physical damage to vehicles, medical expenses for any injuries, and other related costs. The party who failed to use their headlights may be liable for compensating these damages if their negligence is proven.

What Should you Do If your Headlights Fail?

Under Texas Transportation Code §§ 547.302–547.304, vehicles must display required lights at night or when visibility is less than 1,000 feet due to weather or low light. Front lights must include one on each side, and no more than four high-intensity lamps may be used at once. Rear lighting must reflect red, with signal devices allowed in red, amber, or yellow. Certain trailers and mobile homes are exempt when not operated under low-visibility conditions.

What should you do if your headlights fail? Here’s a practical breakdown that helps reduce risk while staying within the law:

• Turn on your hazard lights immediately: That’s your first signal to surrounding drivers that you’re dealing with a visibility issue. Flashers give you some space while you assess your next move.
• Pull over as soon as it’s safe: Whether it’s the shoulder, a side street, or a parking lot, get off the main road to avoid further danger.
• Check your headlight switch and connections: Try toggling the lights to see if it’s a loose wire or a temporary glitch. Sometimes it’s as simple as a flicker in the fuse.
• Call for assistance: Roadside services or local law enforcement can provide help or secure your location until you’re ready to move.
• Do not continue driving without lights: Without proper illumination, you put yourself and others at serious risk and expose yourself to legal consequences.

It’s easy to underestimate how vulnerable a vehicle becomes in low-visibility conditions. However, even dim lighting or a partial failure can make it hard for other drivers to judge distance or speed, especially on poorly lit Texas roads. Responding quickly and calmly can make all the difference.

People often assume daytime running lights are enough, but those don’t activate rear lights. That means other drivers might not see your brake signals or even realize your vehicle is in motion. In these situations, visibility isn’t just about what you can see—it’s about ensuring you’re seen.

Also consider this: headlight problems aren’t always electrical. Water intrusion, corroded sockets, or damaged relays can cause inconsistent lighting. And that kind of unpredictability often leads to poor decisions behind the wheel. Drivers might assume the lights will start working again momentarily, only to lose them entirely at a critical moment.

In the aftermath of a crash, blame is often placed on the driver unless there’s proof of a mechanical issue. That’s why documentation matters. Take a photograph of your dashboard, capture the condition of your surroundings, and document any calls for assistance. These details can be essential in demonstrating what occurred.

When someone else recently serviced your car, or a manufacturing defect was never addressed, responsibility may shift. In Texas, you might have grounds to file a claim not just with insurance, but also against a repair shop or automaker. These claims, supported by thorough documentation, can help injured drivers and passengers recover far more than a standard settlement.

At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, our analysis of dealership records, service notes, and recall notices has uncovered patterns that directly contributed to crashes. That investigative approach strengthens claims and helps ensure accountability.

Contact Anderson & Cummings for Legal Assistance

Understanding the complex factors that impact car accidents from improper headlight use can be difficult. Insurance companies are bound to push back and try to devalue or deny your claim. Having the right legal team in this situation can make all the difference when pursuing compensation for your damages.

At Anderson & Cummings, our Fort Worth personal injury lawyers help injured victims every day, and we have a proven history of securing favorable outcomes. If you have a case, we will work tirelessly on your behalf to help you recover the compensation you deserve so you can move forward with your life.

Anderson & Cummings. Millions Recovered.(817) 920-9000.