When should a driver use high beams according to New Jersey MVC guidelines?

Using high beams is recommended in situations where visibility is significantly reduced or where there are no other vehicles around that could be hindered by the bright light. In open country roads, especially at night, high beams can illuminate a wider area, helping drivers see further ahead, which is crucial for spotting obstacles or wildlife. This setting tends to have minimal traffic, allowing the driver to use high beams without the risk of blinding other motorists.

In contrast, using high beams in rain and fog can actually reduce visibility because the light reflects off the moisture in the air, creating glare. Urban areas often have streetlights and more vehicles, so high beams would not provide additional benefit and could inconvenience other drivers. Also, using high beams only during the daytime is not appropriate, as their main function is to enhance vision in low-light conditions, typically encountered at night or in rural settings.