Rules of the Road Learn The Law Series 9

Learn The Law Menu | Headlights & Roadway Safety

Time again for #learnthelawtuesdays!

Today we are covering when to use your headlights! #1 rule, if its dark OR raining - turn them on!!! Do you think the tractor trailer in the picture below can see the car without it's headlights on? Protect yourself, and others - use your headlights when necessary.

Here are a few of the common questions we receive:

1) When do I actually have to have my headlights on? READ the law below, it will explain what time of the day you must have your lights on, and explain weather permitting occurrences.

2) Why is this law not enforced? This law is what is called a SECONDARY LAW. This does not mean it is not enforced, it just means a trooper must have another primary reason to stop a vehicle or to detain a person before citing the driver for a violation of a traffic law that is subject to secondary enforcement.

3) Can I just turn on my hazard lights so everyone sees me when its raining? Arkansas law states hazard light usage is not permitted while driving except to indicate a traffic hazard. So please, we ask that you use your headlights only if you are traveling on the roadway. If you must pull to the shoulder, you can activate your hazard lights.

27-36-204. When lighted lamps required.

(a) (1) Every vehicle, except motorcycles and motor-driven cycles, upon a highway within this state at any time from one-half (1/2) hour after sunset to one-half (1/2) hour before sunrise and at any other time when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles on the highway at a distance of five hundred feet (500') ahead shall display lighted lamps and illuminating devices as respectively required for different classes of vehicles, subject to exceptions with respect to parked vehicles as stated.

(2) (A) Every vehicle, except motorcycles and motor-driven cycles, upon a street or highway within this state shall display lighted lamps and illuminating devices, as respectively required for different classes of vehicles, during any period in which the vehicle's windshield wipers are being used for clearing or cleaning rain, snow, or other precipitation from the windshield because of inclement weather.

Source: ASP Staff & Learn The Law Inspired by NEA Report

https://neareport.com/2017/10/17/state-police-how-to-use-the-left-turn-lane/

*Excerpt from: #learnthelawtuesdays

OBEY THE RULES OF THE ROAD

Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Offce