When are Virginia motorists required to turn on their headlights?

Virginia motorists are required to turn on their headlights at sunset to ensure visibility and safety as daylight begins to diminish. Headlights enhance a vehicle's visibility to others on the road, particularly when lighting conditions are poor. When the sun sets, it can significantly reduce the ability to see other vehicles, pedestrians, and road signs, making it crucial to use headlights to maintain safe driving practices.

In addition to sunset, headlights are also mandatory during bad weather, such as rain, fog, or snow, to help drivers see the road and to make their vehicles more visible to others. Although turning on headlights only at night is a common practice, the requirement to use them at sunset extends their use to times of reduced visibility, regardless of whether it is fully dark. Therefore, the timing of when headlights must be used is not limited solely to night driving, but rather spans different conditions to promote safety for all road users.