Are Car Body Lights Illegal?

Introduction

Car body lights, also known as underglow lights, are a popular way to customize and personalize a vehicle. They come in a variety of colors and styles, and can be used to create a variety of effects. However, there is some debate over the legality of car body lights in certain jurisdictions.

Federal Regulations

In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has regulations governing the use of lights on motor vehicles. According to these regulations, all exterior lights must be visible from a distance of 500 feet, and may not be red, amber, or blue in color.

Car body lights that meet these requirements are generally considered to be legal under federal law. However, some states and localities have their own laws governing the use of car body lights. These laws vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so it is important to check the local laws before installing car body lights on your vehicle.

State and Local Laws

In some states, car body lights are completely banned. In other states, they are only allowed if they are a certain color or if they are used in a certain way. For example, some states only allow car body lights to be used when the vehicle is parked. It is important to check the local laws before installing car body lights on your vehicle.

Safety Concerns

Some people believe that car body lights can be a safety hazard. They argue that these lights can be distracting to other drivers, and that they can make it difficult to see at night. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. In fact, some studies have shown that car body lights can actually improve visibility at night.

Conclusion

Whether or not car body lights are illegal depends on the jurisdiction in which you live. It is important to check the local laws before installing car body lights on your vehicle. If you are unsure about the legality of car body lights in your area, you can contact your local police department or the NHTSA.