Use of Multiple-Beam Lights – Failure to Dim your Brights while Driving in Colorado

More often than not, when a person comes into contact with law enforcement, it is a result of a traffic infraction. Use of Multiple-Beam Lights, or colloquially known as Failure to Dim High-Beams, concerns driver safety, as high beams can cause temporary vision issues. Although not an extremely common offense, it can add points to your driving record. It is important to break the statute down in order to understand how to avoid violating this law.

The language of the statute first requires that a person have headlights on their car, “of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a safe distance in advance of the vehicle, subject to the following requirements:” This seems pretty obvious: a person must have headlights that allow them to see what is in front of them subject to the following limitations.

The next two subsections discuss what limitations are placed on the lights. The first describes the “use of a distribution of light or composite beam so aimed that the glaring rays are not projected into the eyes of the oncoming driver.” Similarly, subsection (b) requires that a person not use the headlights previously described when within 200 feet of another vehicle. In essence, a person is allowed to use their high-beams, unless another vehicle is passing opposite them, or they are within 200 feet of a vehicle in front of them. Failure to do so is a Class A traffic infraction.

While not the most serious offense, it is still important to consult with an experienced attorney.  An experienced traffic and criminal defense attorney, like those at the Law Office of Jacob E. Martinez, may be able to successfully defend the case, which could result in fewer or no fines. Contact an experienced Denver Traffic Attorney today.