Turn on those lights.

Byline: The Register-Guard

Autumn has arrived with a vengeance, so it's time to unpack the annual sermon on using headlights while driving, even in daytime. On Wednesday, with a steady rain turning to snow, the safety value of headlights became clear.

In daytime, the primary value of headlights is not to see, but to be seen - they allow other motorists to see you coming. Vehicles without lights can become almost invisible as the dark, dreary, wet days of autumn set in.

Oregon law requires that headlights be turned on only between sunset and sunrise, when pedestrians and vehicles aren't clearly discernible from 1,000 feet, or when a vehicle is part of a funeral procession. But common sense suggests strongly that motorists should turn on headlights at all times.

The most easily remembered rule is to turn on your headlights when you turn the ignition key. A backup rule is to turn on your headlights when you turn on your windshield wipers. In these latitudes, that's a near-constant requirement between now and next June.

Here are a few simple rules:

If it's dark and cloudy, or if it's getting on toward dusk, turn on your headlights. This signals your presence to others who are in the roadway or about to enter it.

If your vehicle is a dark color or the color of the skies, your headlights should be on. Dark-colored or gray vehicles blend in with the background. Your headlights let others know you are around.

Turn on your headlights any time you turn on your windshield wipers. Oregon law should, but unfortunately doesn't, require this as a safety measure. Visibility will be reduced any time windshield wipers are needed, so it makes sense to compensate by turning on headlights.

And, finally, activate your headlights during intercity and freeway travel, regardless of weather conditions or visibility. This is a widely recommended defensive driving technique that improves your safety and that of others.

Sermon over. Headlights on. Happy - and safe - fall and winter travel.