Drivers and auto insurance policy holders throughout the Commonwealth need to be aware of an important new traffic law if they wish to avoid getting pulled over. Beginning on April 7th of this year, Massachusetts joined the ranks of states that require drivers to turn on their headlights whenever inclement weather necessitates the use of windshield wipers.

What are the consequences for failure to turn on headlights while using wipers? Any driver who doesn't comply with the new law is subject to a small fine and the notation of a traffic violation on his or her driving record. Such violations can lead to surcharges on auto insurance policies. Multiple infractions can result in license suspension.

More specifically, the new law requires that headlights be turned on whenever visibility of vehicles and pedestrians decreases to 500 feet – so drivers should be aware that not only rain and snow, but also foggy conditions may call for the use of headlights. Additionally drivers are required to keep headlights illuminated for the half hour preceding sunrise and the half hour prior to sunset. Daytime running lights don't qualify as headlights, so drivers should remember to turn on headlights any time they turn on wipers.

Similar laws are already on the books for Connecticut, Rhode Island, and many other states across the country. Since driving laws vary among states, drivers should always be aware while traveling from one jurisdiction to another that there may be differences governing not only the use of headlights, but also restrictions concerning texting and hands-on cell phone use, teen driving, child restraint systems, and legal blood alcohol limits. It pays to be aware! All drivers are considered responsible for complying with the rules of the road wherever they may be driving – ignorance of local laws is not considered a legitimate defense for traffic infractions.

Stay safe!

For more information from the experts over at G&N Insurance, visit www.insurewithgn.com.