Comprehensive Guide to Emergency Vehicle Light Colors and Vehicle Lighting Laws in New York State
If you're outfitting a vehicle with emergency or auxiliary lighting in New York, it's crucial to understand the state's specific laws governing light colors, usage, and installation. This guide provides a detailed overview to ensure compliance and safety.
Authorized Emergency Light Colors in New York
New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) §375(41) outlines the permissible colors for emergency vehicle lighting:
- Red and White Lights: Used by authorized emergency vehicles, including police, fire, and EMS. Red lights may be steady or flashing and are typically mounted on the front and sides. White lights are often used in combination with red to enhance visibility.
- Blue Lights: Primarily designated for volunteer firefighters. These lights must be authorized in writing by the fire chief and are to be used only when responding to emergencies.
- Green Lights: Reserved for members of volunteer ambulance services and mobile crisis teams. Like blue lights, green lights require written authorization and are to be used solely during emergency responses.
- Amber Lights: Utilized by hazard vehicles, such as tow trucks, snowplows, and construction vehicles, when engaged in hazardous operations.
Specific Regulations for Emergency Services
Police Vehicles
Police vehicles are authorized to use red, white, and blue lights. These lights may be steady or flashing and are used to signal drivers to yield or stop.
Fire Department Vehicles
Fire department vehicles may use red and white lights. Blue lights are not permitted on these vehicles.
Volunteer Firefighters
Volunteer firefighters may equip their personal vehicles with blue lights, provided they have written authorization from their fire chief. These lights are to be used only when responding to emergencies and must be removed or covered when not in use.
Volunteer Ambulance Members and Mobile Crisis Teams
Members of volunteer ambulance services and mobile crisis teams may use green lights on their personal vehicles with written authorization. These lights are restricted to use during emergency responses.
Regulations for Hazard and Utility Vehicles
Hazard vehicles, including tow trucks and snowplows, are permitted to use amber lights when engaged in hazardous operations. These lights must be visible from a distance of 500 feet under normal atmospheric conditions.
Restrictions on Lighting for Non-Emergency Vehicles
For civilian vehicles not authorized as emergency or hazard vehicles, New York law prohibits the use of red, blue, green, or white flashing lights. Unauthorized use of these colors can result in fines and penalties.
Underglow Lighting: While not explicitly addressed in New York State law, underglow lighting is generally discouraged, especially if it emits colors reserved for emergency vehicles or includes flashing patterns. It's advisable to use underglow lights that emit non-restricted colors (e.g., amber) and are steady-burning to avoid confusion or legal issues.
Installation and Usage Guidelines
- Visibility: Emergency lights must be visible from a distance of at least 500 feet under normal atmospheric conditions.
- Mounting: Lights should be securely mounted on the vehicle and positioned to maximize visibility without obstructing the driver's view.
- Operation: Emergency lights should be used only during authorized emergency operations. Unauthorized or continuous use can lead to legal consequences.
Move Over Law
New York's Move Over Law requires drivers to exercise due care when approaching an emergency or hazard vehicle displaying flashing lights. On multi-lane highways, drivers must move over to an adjacent lane if safe to do so. Failure to comply can result in fines and points on your driving record.
Compliance Tips for Vehicle Lighting
- Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary written authorization before installing emergency lights on your vehicle.
- Color Selection: Use only the light colors permitted for your specific role (e.g., blue for volunteer firefighters).
- Installation: Have lights installed by professionals to ensure compliance with visibility and mounting regulations.
- Usage: Operate emergency lights strictly during authorized emergency responses.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the New York Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
