Tag: lights

Posted on

Turn Signals and Turn Lanes

Q: If I’m in a lane that is designated for right or left turns only, do I really need to use my turn signal?

A: The answer according to Washington’s law is, “Yes.” That answer finds it’s support in RCW 46.61.305, which states, “No person shall turn a vehicle or move right or left upon a roadway unless and until such movement can be made with reasonable safety nor without giving an appropriate signal . . .” Unlike many of the other RCWs we’ve addressed in Road Rules, this one doesn’t have any exceptions. Even in a designated turn lane, a turn signal is required. Continue reading “Turn Signals and Turn Lanes”

Posted on

Blinding Brake Lights

Q: I was following a newer Escalade a few nights ago. At a stop sign, when the driver applied the brakes, I was blinded by the stop lights. This sounds like a minor complaint, but it was dark and I couldn’t see for several seconds. The RCW does not address the brightness of rear lighting. What gives?

A: On the face of it, you’re right. If you search the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) you won’t find any statute that specifies a maximum brightness for brake lights. However, I can make a trail from state to federal law that will answer your question. While you will find general vehicle equipment requirements in state law, the federal government regulates the details in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). These details are what vehicle manufacturers have to comply with in order to sell a vehicle in the United States. FMVSS 108 covers vehicle lighting. If you have a degree in industrial engineering and an abundance of time you may find it an enjoyable read. For the rest of us, it’s enough to know that one of the charts in the code specifies a minimum and maximum intensity for stop lamps. Continue reading “Blinding Brake Lights”