North Carolina (NC) Permit Practice Test

Which of the following can temporarily blind a driver at night?

1. Both A and B

2. Flame from a match he strikes to light a cigarette

3. Glare from the headlights of other cars

4. Neither A nor B

The correct answer is: Both A and B

The correct answer is that both the flame from a match struck to light a cigarette and glare from the headlights of other cars can temporarily blind a driver at night. Glare from oncoming headlights is a common experience for night drivers; it can significantly reduce visibility and create a momentary blinding effect, making it difficult to see the road clearly. This can lead to dangerous situations if other drivers are not prepared for this sudden loss of vision. Additionally, striking a match to light a cigarette produces a bright flame that can also momentarily impair a driver's eyesight. In the dark, this brief flash can be disorienting, further contributing to the risk of accidents. Both scenarios highlight the importance of minimizing distractions and being aware of how different light sources can impact a driver's ability to see at night.