DVSA ‘no excuses’ warning to drivers | Tech News

Motorists have been issued with a blunt “no excuses” warning over a common mistake that might go away them driving illegally at night time – and probably endangering others.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has instructed drivers in no unsure phrases: “PUT YOUR LIGHTS ON AT NIGHT!”. In a strongly worded message on X, officers warned that many motorists are counting on daytime operating lights – which can provide a false sense of security – as an alternative of switching on correct headlights.

Crucially, whereas these entrance lights might seem vibrant enough, they don’t illuminate the rear of the vehicle, which means drivers might be nearly invisible from behind in darkness.

What the law really says

Under Rule 113 of the Highway Code, motorists face clear legal necessities when driving after darkish.

Drivers should guarantee sidelights and rear registration plate lights are lit between sundown and dawn, and normally should additionally use headlights at night time.

The guidelines outline night time as between half an hour after sundown and half an hour earlier than dawn – a element many drivers overlook. Headlights are additionally obligatory when visibility is significantly lowered, akin to in heavy rain, fog or snow.

The hidden hazard of fashionable vehicles

The DVSA warning highlights a growing problem with newer automobiles, the place automated lighting systems and vibrant dashboard shows can mislead drivers into pondering their lights are totally on.

In actuality, solely daytime operating lights could also be energetic – leaving the rear of the car unlit.

That creates a critical risk for different street customers, notably on unlit roads or motorways, the place automobiles approaching from behind might not see a car till it’s too late.

Fog lights and glare dangers

The Highway Code additionally units strict limits on how lights needs to be used. Drivers should not use lights in a manner that dazzles others, together with pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

Fog lights, particularly, are ceaselessly misused. These should solely be used when visibility is significantly lowered – and switched off as quickly as circumstances improve.

Motorists caught in site visitors are additionally suggested to take their foot off the brake as soon as automobiles behind have stopped, to keep away from pointless glare.

‘No excuses’

The DVSA’s message is obvious: drivers can not depend on technology alone. With lighting guidelines backed by law, failing to use correct lights at night time isn’t just careless – it might go away motorists on the flawed aspect of the laws.