site banner

Small-Scale Question Sunday for January 8, 2023

Do you have a dumb question that you're kind of embarrassed to ask in the main thread? Is there something you're just not sure about?

This is your opportunity to ask questions. No question too simple or too silly.

Culture war topics are accepted, and proposals for a better intro post are appreciated.

3
Jump in the discussion.

No email address required.

You might start here.

Why are headlights getting brighter?

"The trend toward improved headlight illumination has been fueled in part by manufacturers seeking higher safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Professor Kennedy said."

Isn't their brightness regulated?

Yes, but policing of headlights is pretty unusual.

by the way, why are cars getting bigger too?

Safety ratings may also play a role here, but emissions laws that exempt larger vehicles have recently been blamed as well.