If you have a light bar on your vehicle, you are probably wondering if it's illegal to drive around with it on. There are several states that have laws about this, but they can vary. Here are a few common ones.
Michigan
There are many laws governing the proper use of light bars in Michigan. This includes the LED lights bar that are mounted on top of the vehicles. They are advertised as a way to illuminate dark off-road locations. However, they can actually be a liability for other drivers, especially in the case of collisions.
The same goes for the fog lights. They can be activated in any weather condition. It is also not uncommon to see people driving with neon light bars on the insides of their cars. A recent study found that motorists are more likely to be involved in a car crash if they are distracted by such things.
It is also illegal in Michigan to drive around with a light bar on your vehicle. This is because it is a violation of the move-over law. Similarly, underbody lighting is also banned.
Lastly, the state of Michigan has its fair share of laws pertaining to cell phone use. In order to legally drive in the state, you must present a valid driver's license. If you fail to do so, you can face charges for careless driving. Other laws require drivers to wear safety belts in the front and rear seats. Also, kids under the age of four must be restrained in a child safety seat.
All in all, it isn't difficult to see why Michigan has the highest rate of car crashes in the country. With nearly 25,000 accidents per year, there is no need to risk your life by being distracted while you are behind the wheel. Thankfully, the most important driving rule of all is to keep your eyes on the road. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned driver, following these rules will help keep you safe and allow you to enjoy your day on the road.
South Australia
The South Australian government makes it quite clear that the light bar is an acceptable measure of road safety. It even allows the installation of such gizmos. For instance, it is legal to have a light bar with an LED light bulb attached.
However, you are not permitted to mount a light bar on your roof. A light bar is not allowed to be attached to a bull bar. This is in contrast to a light bar on a ladder rack, which would be an acceptable measure. In terms of size, height and weight, you are not limited to a single light bar. If you are lucky enough to have access to a ladder rack, you can fit several lights on it.
Of course, you must be careful not to break the law. You must be able to prove that your vehicle can meet the aforementioned standards before you can have your lights on. Thus, the best course of action is to do your homework before you take the plunge. With that in mind, you will be able to enjoy the many benefits that a light bar can bring to your road trip.
When it comes to the actual light bar on your roof, there are many options to choose from. These include LED lights, lightbars, and spotlights to name a few. Depending on your personal preferences, you can go for a full blown LED light bar, or opt for a combination LED light and Spotlights. While the former is more expensive and may not fit your budget, you may not have to break the bank for the latter. So, do your research and you will be rewarded with an improved nighttime experience.
Virginia
When you drive in Virginia, you must adhere to strict headlight laws. These laws vary depending on what time of day you drive. You can be ticketed for driving around in the dark if you don't have headlights on. If you do, you could be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. Depending on your case, you may be able to get out of the charge by taking a safe driving course.
The law also requires a certain amount of light to be produced. This is the case with fog lights, high beams, and auxillary lights. In addition, there are regulations for mufflers and warning devices.
Those who are in violation of the law can face a fine of up to $250. Additionally, a driver will receive demerit points on their record. Those who are convicted of a traffic violation can keep the demerit points for up to three years. However, the DMV does not issue demerit points if the violation is a minor offense.
Under the law, a vehicle's bumper must be at least 14 to 22 inches above the ground. This height is measured from the lower edge of the main horizontal bumper bar. Likewise, a vehicle must be equipped with tires that are at least 3 inches tall.
Another law that requires a certain amount of light to be used is the law governing public utility vehicles. A public utility vehicle is defined as a police car, fire truck, wrecker, or ambulance. Public utility vehicles can use flashing or alternating amber lights.
If you're caught driving in Virginia without a light bar, you can be subject to a fine. However, you can still be pulled over for other reasons.
Illinois
If you live in Illinois, it is illegal to drive around with a light bar installed in your car. The state's regulations include a requirement that all lights be dim, away from other drivers and vehicles, and that they be able to be turned on or off. However, it is legal to install up to four forward lights and two auxiliary running lights. To get more information on the laws, visit the Illinois Department of Transportation's website. It's also a good idea to check with the state where you purchased your vehicle.
Although you can't drive in Hawaii with a light bar, you can still install an auxiliary running light in your car. Auxiliary running lights in Hawaii must be mounted at least 16 inches above the ground and have a maximum of 2,400 candlepower. In addition, you must turn them off when not in use. You can also install a spotlight, but the spotlight must be directed at approaching vehicles and cannot be used to illuminate a path or to guide a boat.
If you are planning to buy a new car, you need to make sure that the vehicle is manufactured according to Illinois law. If you live in other states, such as Minnesota or Idaho, you can legally install up to two auxiliary running lights.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is one of the few states in the United States that has specific laws regarding the installation of lighting accessories. In fact, all vehicles in the state must have a muffler and sound system in order to drive. This means that you will not be allowed to install a gizmo in your car that is supposedly going to light up your rearview mirror. The clight website provides more details on these laws and their regulations. Nevertheless, you should be aware of the laws in your state before you get out on the road. If you have any questions, feel free to contact your local motor vehicle department.
The Clight website also provides an overview of the most popular legal devices. These include the led light bar, which is still a good option as it allows you to easily see things in the dark. Also, no overrides are required.
While these are some of the most welcome features on any gizmo, the most useful are actually LED strips. Its light output isn't the greatest, but it's bright enough to light up your rearview mirror, which is a big plus.
