Originally Posted By: supton
Usually no one gets why I flash my lights at them, but once in a while I'm pleasantly surprised.
GM had nice bright yellow DRL's, I actually liked their setup. But IMO DRL's need to turn on the parking lights too. I drive a lot into the sun, morning and evening. Might not need headlights during those times, but it sure would be nice to see the taillights.
I got bit by the dash on our Camry. It has that crazy bright backlight. It was a long trip, so I was a bit tired, but it took a long time to realize I didn't have my lights on, and it was good and dark by the time I realized my mistake. This was in reasonably heavy traffic, so I had no problems seeing--which is usually my que to turn on my lights as it gets dark out--out of my usual drive, out of my usual habits. [During the winter months I often just turn them on, as it'll be dark always when I'm driving.]
I'm no fan of auto headlights. Maybe it's one step closer. Technically state law here wants headlights on if the wipers are on--common sense, but common sense ought to lead people to turn on their lights too, so I guess the programming needs to take wiper usage into account too. And too much ambient light, like dawn "driving into the rising sun" issue.
At least these days a number of makers have the headlight switch on a relay, take the key out of the ignition and the lights turn off for you. A good number of people ought to just turn 'em on and leave 'em on. I'm sure their friendly inspection shop will gladly replace the bulbs for them, if they burn out.
IMO, DRL's are not designed for and do not add sufficient visibility for sunrise/sunset conditions. You may see me just fine, but that doesn't mean I can easily see you or your parking/DRL's past the sun's glare.
If i look in my side or rear-view mirror and have trouble seeing anything I keep all of my lights energized.