Lots of modern cars have automatic headlights and daytime running lights that aim to keep you safe in all weather conditions. However, you shouldn’t rely on your illuminated dashboard as a sign your lights are on.

RAA Manager of Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain says many vehicles have permanently illuminated dashboards, so drivers need to pay attention to the light icon, specifically.

If your vehicle doesn’t have auto-sensing headlights, make sure you turn them on when needed and off before you leave the vehicle.

Driving at night or in hazardous weather without effective lights can be costly, as well as dangerous.

If you’re caught, you could receive a $260 fine, plus a $90 Victims of Crime Levy and 1 demerit point.

Last year alone, 4589 drivers were caught without effective lights, with 4274 people receiving a warning and another 585 fined.

So, when should you switch your headlights on? When you need to illuminate the road ahead or to make sure that other motorists can see you.

Switch them on during sunrise or sunset, when long shadows can create a flickering effect between trees and obscure your vehicle from the view of others. If your car has automatic headlights, be aware that in some cases slight changes in light might not trigger this feature and you may need to manually turn your lights on to optimise your visibility.

You might have enough natural light to see where you’re going but having your lights on will make it easier for others to see you. The same applies if it’s an overcast or drizzly day, if you’re travelling in dusty conditions or passing through areas with alternating shade and sunlight.

If you can’t see oncoming cars clearly, chances are they can’t see you either. Switching on your lights will ensure you’re visible.

If you’re driving along country roads, it’s a good idea to turn your headlights on if your vehicle isn’t fitted with daytime running lights. This will help increase the visibility of your vehicle to approaching traffic.