What does overdriving your headlights mean?

Overdriving your headlights refers specifically to the scenario where a driver is traveling at a speed that exceeds the distance they can see ahead in the light provided by their vehicle’s headlights. When you overdrive your headlights, you cannot stop safely within the illuminated area, meaning that if a hazard were to suddenly appear in your path, you would not have enough time to react before reaching it. This is particularly important at night or in low-light conditions when your visibility is limited.

Understanding this concept emphasizes the importance of adjusting your speed according to your visibility. If the road ahead is not well-lit and you are driving too fast, your stopping distance will be longer than the distance illuminated by your headlights. This can significantly increase the risk of collisions or accidents, as you may not have adequate time to react to obstacles. Hence, it's crucial to drive at a speed that allows you to safely stop within the range of your headlights.