Under what condition must the headlight be dimmed?

The condition under which the headlight must be dimmed is when approaching public highway crossings. This is important for ensuring safety at crossings where vehicles and pedestrians might be present. Dimming the headlight helps reduce glare that can distract or blind drivers and pedestrians, allowing them to see clearly and make safe decisions as the train approaches.

Local regulations and operational rules emphasize the importance of reducing headlight intensity at these crossings to enhance visibility for all parties involved. This action contributes to preventing accidents and promotes safer interactions between trains and vehicles at these critical points.

While dimming headlights in residential areas or near other trains might sound reasonable, the specific requirement in this context is tailored to high-risk crossover points, where the potential for collision is more pronounced. Dimming during nighttime operations is not a strict requirement as there are circumstances outside residential areas and during the day that necessitate headlight dimming as well.