Apparatus and method for controlling the lighting distance of vehicle headlamps

The beam width regulation device has at least one transmitter (4) providing a detection beam (7,8) directed onto the road surface (9) ahead of the automobile (1), with detection of the reflected beam via a sensor (5) coupled to an evaluation circuit controlling a beam width setting device. A plausibility checking function is included for detection of an obstacle infront of the automobile, for blocking the adjustment of the beam width. An Independent claim for a method for regulation of the beam width for an automobile headlamp is also included.