(MIDDLESEX COUNTY, ON) – The Middlesex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind the motoring public to use their headlights for safety.
The law requires that vehicle lights which include, head lights, clearance lights and tail lights to be activated one half (1/2) hour before sunset to one half (1/2) hour after sunrise and any other time when visibility is affected by the environment (rain, fog, cloudy days, blowing snow, etc.).
Clearance lights (parking lights) are only one part of the vehicles lighting system. When travelling on roadways and to ensure visibility, vehicle lights should be activated.
Even though the driver of a vehicle believes that they can see clearly, other drivers may not be able to see them. Certain colours of vehicles are more difficult to see than others especially during low light conditions.
Many people believe that Day Time Running Lights are enough light during low light conditions, this is incorrect as it takes the combination of all lights equipped on your vehicle to help you be seen. Day Time Running Lights only assist other motorist observing you from the front of the vehicle, but the rear of the vehicle also needs to be illuminated.
Earlier this morning Middlesex County was covered in a deep fog. This created numerous traffic related concerns for the motoring public and police. Tragically one person lost their life and a second was injured as result of a two vehicle collision on Calvert Drive at Thames Road.
Police are reminding the public that we must all take responsibly for our own vehicle. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained; use all your safety equipment including lights and seat belts; put down all of the distractions and only travel if you feel it is truly safe to do so.
Remember Be Safe and Be Seen!!