Daytime Running Lights | Autolight | Lightminder

Even though circumstances and environmental conditions might differ, the following international studies have provided noteworthy findings in countries where daytime running lights are used in vehicles:

In Denmark in 1990 two studies evaluated the Daytime Running Lights law. One study assessed short-term effects, the other looking at longer term effects. Results of these two studies were quite consistent. There was a small reduction in daytime multiple-vehicle crashes (7%) in the first year and 3 months after the law was in effect with one type of daytime running lights relevant crash (left turn in front of oncoming vehicle) reduced by 37%.

In the second study, which covered 2 years and 9 months after the law, there was a 6% reduction in daytime multiple-vehicle crashes, and a 34% reduction in left-turn crashes. There was a small reduction in motor vehicle - cyclist collisions (4 %), but a statistically significant decrease (16%) in motor vehicle-pedestrian accidents.

In a study in Canada, comparing 1990 model vehicles (required to have daytime running lights) with 1989 vehicles, a statistically significant 11% reduction in daytime multiple-vehicle crashes other than rear-end impacts was estimated. This estimate was adjusted to take into account the fact that about 29% of 1989 vehicles were fitted with daytime running lights.

In 1994 Avis, Inc. announced the results of a traveler-safety study analysing the incidents and degree of damage to cars equipped with daytime running lights; the study showed a significantly greater degree of damage to those without Daytime Running Lights. Those equipped with Daytime Running Lights have their headlights on at all times and are more visible to other drivers. During the day, they are on at an 80% power level; in the dark they operate at 100%.

It is easier to see cars in low light situations - especially oncoming vehicles.
It is easier to spot cars in a glare, shade, dusk, etc. when vehicles drive with their lights on.
Your attention is grabbed a bit faster and it gives a few spilt seconds more to react, adjust etc - split seconds that could make a difference in dangerous situations.

In South Africa approximately 40% of fatalities are pedestrian deaths.
Many informal settlements in South Africa are situated next to highways - thereby increasing the risk of further pedestrian fatalities.
Children attending schools in rural communities walk several kilometres next to the roads to and from their schools.
Various studies have shown that "driving with lights on" can improve the noticeability and detectability of vehicles in the central and peripheral fields of view.
Commitment to the "Lights on Campaign" could not only enhance visibility but also serve as a reminder to all motorists at all times of the dangers on the road, and the measures we need to take to avoid these dangers.