Comprehensive Guide to Emergency Vehicle Light Colors and Vehicle Lighting Laws in Ohio
This guide provides detailed information on Ohio's statutes regarding emergency vehicle light colors and the legality of installing various lighting on vehicles. It is intended for customers and partners of UltraBrightLightz.com seeking clarity on compliant lighting solutions in Ohio.
Emergency Vehicle Light Color Regulations in Ohio
Ohio law, primarily outlined in Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Section 4513.17, specifies the permissible light colors for various types of vehicles:
Law Enforcement Vehicles
- Permitted Lights: Red and white flashing or rotating lights.
- Additional Allowance: Blue or blue and white lights are authorized for law enforcement officers and vehicles involved in enforcing criminal and/or traffic laws.
- Operation Modes: These lights may flash, rotate, or oscillate.
Fire Trucks and Ambulances
- Permitted Lights: Red or red and white flashing or revolving lights.
- Usage: These lights are used during emergency operations, often accompanied by sirens to signal visibility and warning to other motorists.
Volunteer Firefighter Vehicles
- Classification: Considered public safety vehicles when responding to emergencies.
- Permitted Lights: Red or red and white flashing or rotating lights.
- Restrictions: Use of these lights outside of emergency responses on roadways may result in a misdemeanor.
Tow Trucks, Construction, and Utility Vehicles
- Permitted Lights: Amber lights that flash, rotate, or oscillate.
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Usage Conditions:
- Tow Trucks: While on the road servicing or towing a disabled vehicle.
- Construction Vehicles: During road service and maintenance operations.
- Utility Vehicles: Only while completing a work task; lights must be off otherwise.
Funeral Escort Vehicles
- Permitted Lights: Flashing, oscillating, or rotating purple or amber lights.
- Usage: When used on a street or highway for the special purpose necessitating such lights.
General Vehicle Lighting Laws in Ohio
Front and Rear Lighting Colors
- Front Lights: Only white or amber lights are permitted.
- Rear Lights: Only red lights are permitted.
- Exceptions: Turn signals, warning lamps, and backup lamps.
Flashing Lights
- Prohibition: Flashing lights are prohibited on motor vehicles, except for indicating turns or in the presence of a vehicular traffic hazard.
- Exceptions: Emergency vehicles, road service vehicles, and others as specified in ORC Section 4513.17.
Underglow and Accent Lighting
Legality of Underglow Lights
- Permitted: Colored neon or LED underglow lights are not explicitly prohibited.
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Conditions:
- Lights must not flash, rotate, or oscillate.
- Must not display red or blue colors, as these are reserved for emergency vehicles.
- Should not interfere with or blind other drivers.
- Lights must be less than 300 candle power.
License Plate Illumination
- Requirement: A white light must be the primary illumination for the rear license plate.
- Additional Lighting: Colored lights around the license plate are permissible only if they do not alter the visible colors of the plate and a separate white light remains the primary source of illumination.
Recommendations for Vehicle Lighting Compliance
- Avoid Prohibited Colors: Do not use red or blue lights on non-emergency vehicles to prevent misidentification.
- Ensure Proper Installation: All lighting should be securely mounted and not obstruct the driver's view or other critical vehicle functions.
- Consult Local Regulations: Always check with local authorities or legal counsel to ensure compliance with the most current laws and regulations.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Ohio Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
