Practice question

How can you reduce glare from oncoming headlights?

  1. Stare directly at the headlights
  2. Look to the upper left side of your lane
  3. Look to the lower right side of your lane
  4. Close your eyes temporarily

Answer: C — Look to the lower right side of your lane

Reducing glare from oncoming headlights is important for maintaining visibility and driver safety at night. Looking to the lower right side of your lane helps minimize the impact of bright lights from vehicles approaching in the opposite direction. This technique allows your eyes to focus on the roadway and not directly on the source of the glare, which can impair your vision and lead to temporary blindness. By shifting your gaze to a less illuminated area, such as the lower right side, you can better manage the brightness of the headlights and maintain a clearer view of the road ahead. This method is particularly effective since it keeps your peripheral vision engaged to monitor other vehicles and potential hazards without being distracted by glaring lights. In contrast, staring directly at the headlights will only worsen glare and can even lead to disorientation. Looking to the upper left side of your lane may still expose you to the brightness, and closing your eyes temporarily is not a practical or safe solution while driving. Maintaining focus on the road while managing glare is crucial for safe driving practices.

Practice more: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Practice Test →