Driving without lights?

[SonnyC]

Is it legal to drive without working lights (side lights headlights, tail lights) during the day? (The question is assuming that the brake lights and indicators function correctly)

[kempie]

I never argued against that statement. You will note I used the phrase 'if fitted' or similar in 4 of my previous posts.

As a sidenote, you probably would not be prosecuted if the lamp(s) failed mid journey or if you were taking the vehicle for repair of the defective lamp(s) as long as both these scenarios occurred between the hours of sunrise and sunset (i.e. in daylight).

[kempie]

Surely the point is moot now since it is too dark for SonnyC to get away with it ;�)

[THECORBYLOON]

Have a look here

http://www.legislation.hmso.gov.uk/si/si1989/Uksi_19891796_en_6.htm#end

It gives the details of what lights are needed when....

[Grunty]

After all that, if I may, I would like to recommend the site that was found by Kempie.  The MOT is irrevelant as it only shows that somebody has checked the lights once in the past year.  The lights listed in the question are compulsory.  They must be clean and in working order at all times.

One day you might prevent an accident with a headlight warning instead of using them to say 'hello' or 'pull out in front of me - I take full responsibility' or 'I can see your judgement is poor, so I'm telling you that you have overtaken me'.

[KebabMeister]

I used to do MOT tests and yes, you only test a vehicle in the condition it was brought into the garage.

However, if the vehicle if fitted with lights, and are testable under MOT (DOT) testing, then they are to be fully serviceable in the event that they are required (fog, flashing/warning someone etc).  The lights that must work are all 4 indicators (mid wing don't have to work), Brake lights, headlights, rear sidelights, off side fog light, number plate lights.  If any of these are not working then it is considered in the eyes of the law that the vehicle is not road worthy.  In the same instance, if the lights are working but the lenses are cracked, rusty, full of water etc., then again it is considered not road worthy.

All lights are there for a reason, not just for night time driving. 

[hedgehog661]

Hi

Under the 1989 section 41 (if memory serves) lighting rules all lights where fitted(and there is a standard as to the minimum lights fitted) must work. However there is a resonable defence in law if you can prove your lights have just failed and you are making good attempts to rectify this problem.