New Britain Township Police remind drivers of headlight laws as early darkness returns

With daylight fading earlier after the end of Daylight Saving Time, New Britain Township Police are reminding motorists to switch on their headlights — not just for visibility, but because the law requires it.

In a new Traffic Safety Message, police highlighted the vehicle lighting rules outlined in the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code, Title 75, stressing that drivers must activate their headlights during specific conditions to keep roads safe.

According to §4302 – Periods for requiring lighted lamps, drivers must turn on headlights:

1. Between sunset and sunrise (police suggest asking, “Hey Siri, when is sunset today?”).
2. Any time visibility drops and a driver cannot see a person or vehicle at least 1,000 feet ahead due to darkness or poor weather — including rain, snow, sleet, hail, fog, smoke, or smog.
3. Any time windshield wipers are in continuous or intermittent use due to precipitation or moisture, such as rain, snow, sleet, or mist.

Police also reminded motorists that stop lights, turn signals, and other required signal devices must be illuminated as prescribed under the statute.

Drivers can find more information under Title 75, Chapter 43 – Lighting Equipment of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code.