This week we write more on the issue of high beams while driving. We heard from several readers over the past few weeks about the incorrect use of a vehicle’s high beams, which we addressed in a recent column.

Glenn Olsen of Riverside said he’s noticed an increasing number of people who drive with their high beams on at all times and asked us to share with our readers that this is illegal, rude, potentially dangerous and unnecessary. California Vehicle Code section 24409 says if a vehicle is driving behind another vehicle and is within 300 feet, low beams should be used.

MORE: When is it legal to drive with your high beams on?

We especially appreciate a response email from Gail L. Roussell of San Bernardino. Roussell is the supervising account technician for the San Bernardino County Fleet Department.

“THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for publishing your article on the use of high beams. I think people have forgotten and/or were never instructed on the use of high beams,” she said, adding that some of the worst offenders are drivers of city and county vehicles. “Hopefully, drivers who are guilty of this will read your article and pass on the information.”

Roussell said she plans to forward our article to the county’s Risk Management representative and ask that they conduct “some kind of training and/or send a reminder to all staff regarding the use of high beams.”

We hope our article is helpful.

Jim Hall of Moreno Valley pointed out that DMV encourages motorcyclists to use high beams day and night to increase visibility. The California Motorcycle Handbook, under the “Headlight” section, says: “The best way to help others see your motorcycle is to always keep the headlight and, if equipped, running lights on. A motorcycle with its light on is twice as likely to be noticed. Using your high beam during the day and at night increases the chances that oncoming drivers will see you. Use your high beam when it is legal and safe to do so. When it is foggy, use the low beam.”

Note the handbook advises motorcyclists to use the high beam when it’s legal and safe to do so. CVC section 24409 (cited above) makes no exception for motorcycles. Motorcyclists are advised to use their high beams when there’s limited visibility and no other vehicles present, day or night, but they must dim the lights when approaching other vehicles or following them closely.

Finally, Ted Petrich of Hemet observed that many drivers have newer vehicles with either LED, Xenon, or Halogen lights. It may seem to some motorists that other drivers are using their bright lights when it’s just these newer, brighter lights on a regular setting.

“All three of these are much brighter than the old style incandescent bulb lights many of us grew up with. Also, I’m sure many cars equipped with their bright lights have them misaligned,” he said.

Do you commute to work in the Inland Empire? Spend a lot of time in your vehicle? Have questions about driving, freeways, toll roads or parking? If so, write or call On the Road and we’ll try to answer your questions. Please include your question or issue, name, city of residence, phone number and email address. Write ontheroad@scng.com or call 951-368-9995.