Make Sure Vehicle Lights Shine Bright for Safe Spring Driving

BETHESDA, Md., March 14, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Spring is here and its arrival means warmer weather, more hours of daylight and spring break travel.  Making sure your headlights are in proper working order should be a top priority before hitting the road this spring, says the Car Care Council.

"Many motorists think to check their vehicle's lights in fall or winter when the days are shorter, but checking lighting before the spring and summer driving season is just as important," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Better weather and longer days mean more driving and longer trips, often after dark. Lights play a major role in safe driving, as the chance of an accident increases if you can't see or be seen."

Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility, signals and alerts other drivers, and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle's interior. From the driver's seat you may not notice a light that isn't working, so be sure to inspect your car's lights at every oil change. At the same time, inspect and replace wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during spring showers.

In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips can help keep you safe:

• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights from being seen by others.
• Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Miss-aimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.
• Don't overdrive your headlights; you should be able to stop inside the illuminated area, otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.
• If there is any doubt on whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on. Lights not only help you see better in early twilight, they also make it easier for other drivers to see you.

About the Car Care Council:

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

SOURCE Car Care Council