When an oncoming car approaches at night, you should dim your lights within ______ feet.

When an oncoming car approaches at night, it is essential to dim your headlights to prevent blinding the other driver. The correct distance to dim your lights is within 500 feet of the oncoming vehicle. This distance helps ensure that your high beams do not interfere with the visibility of the oncoming driver, allowing both vehicles to navigate safely.

Dimmer headlights are designed to provide adequate illumination for the driver without causing glare for others on the road. Maintaining this practice is fundamental for nighttime driving safety, as it promotes better visibility and reduces the risk of accidents. In contrast, dimming your lights too far from the approaching vehicle—either too early or too late—could result in decreased visibility for yourself or the oncoming driver, leading to potential hazards.