California § 24409 - Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated during darkness, the driver shall use
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 24409 — Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated during darkness, the driver shall use, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 24409. Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated during darkness, the driver shall use
Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated during darkness, the driver shall use a distribution of light, or composite beam, directed high enough and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a safe distance in advance of the vehicle, subject to the following requirements and limitations: (a) Whenever the driver of a vehicle approaches an oncoming vehicle within 500 feet, he shall use a distribution of light or composite beam so aimed that the glaring rays are not projected into the eyes of the oncoming driver. The lowermost distribution of light specified in this article shall be deemed to avoid glare at all times regardless of road contour. (b) Whenever the driver of a vehicle follows another vehicle within 300 feet to the rear, he shall use the lowermost distribution of light specified in this article.
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 24409
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 24409 cover?
Section 24409 ("Whenever a motor vehicle is being operated during darkness, the driver shall use") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite California § 24409?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 24409" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of California law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.
How does California § 24409 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.