Massachusetts Law Mandating Headlight Use Takes Effect

BOSTON (AP) — A new Massachusetts law requires drivers to turn on their headlights when their windshield wipers are in use and during times of low visibility during the day.

The law that takes effect Tuesday is meant to increase safety on the state's roads by making vehicles more visible.

The law, passed in January, mandates headlight use when "due to insufficient light or unfavorable atmospheric conditions" visibility is reduced to less than 500 feet, as well as from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise.

A violation is subject to a $5 fine and is considered a surchargeable minor motor vehicle traffic offense for insurance purposes.

The law will get an early test. Rain is in the forecast for Tuesday through much of the week.