Michigan Emergency Vehicle Lighting Laws: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide provides an overview of Michigan's regulations concerning emergency vehicle lighting, as outlined in Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) § 257.698. It covers authorized light colors, usage guidelines, and legal considerations for both emergency and non-emergency vehicles.
Authorized Emergency Vehicle Lighting
Under MCL § 257.698(5), the use of flashing, oscillating, or rotating lights is generally prohibited unless specifically permitted by law. The statute delineates the following allowances:
- Police Vehicles: May be equipped with flashing, rotating, or oscillating red or blue lights for official duties.
- Fire and Ambulance Vehicles: Must have flashing, rotating, or oscillating red lights for safety purposes.
- Authorized Emergency Vehicles: Permitted to use flashing, rotating, or oscillating red lights when responding to emergencies, provided the lights are visible in a 360-degree arc from at least 500 feet.
- Snow and Ice Removal Vehicles: State, county, or municipal vehicles engaged in snow and ice removal may use flashing, rotating, or oscillating amber or green lights visible in a 360-degree arc.
- Utility and Service Vehicles: Vehicles performing public utility services, refuse collection, towing, or highway maintenance may be equipped with flashing, rotating, or oscillating amber lights.
- Funeral Procession Vehicles: May display flashing, rotating, or oscillating purple or amber lights during a funeral procession.
- Physician's Private Vehicles: A physician responding to an emergency may use flashing, rotating, or oscillating red lights mounted on the roof, visible in a 360-degree arc from at least 500 feet, with prior written authorization from the county sheriff.
- Public Transit Vehicles: May be equipped with a flashing, oscillating, or rotating white light mounted on the roof, used only in inclement weather or low-visibility conditions when boarding or discharging passengers.
- Neighborhood Watch Vehicles: Vehicles clearly identified as part of a neighborhood watch program working in conjunction with local law enforcement may use flashing, rotating, or oscillating amber lights only during official duties.
Non-Emergency Vehicle Lighting
Certain non-emergency vehicles are permitted to use specific lighting under MCL § 257.698:
- Construction and Utility Vehicles: May use amber lights for visibility during operations.
- Tow Trucks and Wreckers: Allowed to use amber lights when engaged in towing or roadside assistance.
- Pilot Vehicles for Oversize Loads: Must have one flashing or oscillating amber strobe light mounted on top, visible from at least 500 feet.
- Security Vehicles: May display amber lights, but these should not be activated on public highways while the vehicle is in motion.
Prohibited Lighting and Usage
Michigan law prohibits the unauthorized use of certain lighting:
- Flashing, Oscillating, or Rotating Lights: Use of these lights is prohibited unless specifically authorized under MCL § 257.698.
- Underglow Lighting: Ground effects lighting is illegal on public roads in Michigan.
- Unauthorized Sale or Possession: Selling, loaning, or furnishing flashing, rotating, or oscillating red or blue lights designed for emergency vehicles to unauthorized individuals is prohibited.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violations of MCL § 257.698(5) are considered misdemeanors, punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine up to $100, or both.
Legal Vehicle Lighting Options
For vehicle owners seeking to enhance visibility legally:
- Side Cowl or Fender Lamps: Up to two amber or white lights without glare are permitted.
- Running Board Courtesy Lamps: One white or amber light per side is allowed.
- Backup Lights: Red, amber, or white lights that activate only when the vehicle is in reverse gear are acceptable.
- Reflectors: Must display white or amber light if visible from the front, amber or red from the sides, and red from the rear.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Michigan Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
