Are Blacked Out Tail Lights Illegal? Looking for Info!

Accessories & Modifications
1

I’ve been thinking about modifying my car and one of the changes I’m considering is getting blacked out tail lights. I love the sleek look they provide, but I’m unsure about the legality of it all.

Here are my main concerns:

  • Visibility: Will these modifications affect how clearly other drivers can see my tail lights, especially at night?
  • Laws: Are there specific laws in different states regarding tail light modifications? I want to make sure I’m not breaking any rules.
  • Fines and Penalties: If I were to get pulled over, what kind of fines could I be looking at? Has anyone had experiences with this?

I’d appreciate any insights or experiences you all might have! Thanks in advance for your help!

6 Likes
2

I’ve been looking into this as well! In many states in the U.S., blacked out tail lights can lead to fines. It’s best to check your local regulations.

7 Likes
3

That’s right! Each state has different rules. For instance, California is stricter about visibility.

4

I read somewhere that in some places, only certain colors or levels of tint are allowed. It really varies, so always check local laws before modifying your car!

5

Exactly! Not just color, but also the level of modification can make a big difference.

6

I think it’s mainly about safety. If your lights are too dim, you could end up causing an accident! Consider the visibility of your car.

7

Great point! It’s all about being safe on the road. Plus, you don’t want to deal with a fine or worse, an accident because of visibility issues.

4 Likes
8

In some cases, you may have to remove modifications if you’re pulled over. Officers can issue warnings or tickets on the spot.

9

That sounds risky! I wonder how many people actually know the laws in their state.

10

Honestly, it’s not very well-publicized. Many folks simply don’t know until they face a fine. Do your homework before further modifying!

11

I was tempted to get some darker lights too. But after reading the laws, I decided to go with LED lights instead. Safer and much cooler!

12

LEDs are a great alternative! Plus, they last longer and are more energy-efficient.

13

Regarding penalties, they can vary significantly, with fines ranging from minor amounts to hefty ticks. Be cautious and know where you stand!

14

Good advice! It’s always worth it to double-check your state’s DMV regulations.

4 Likes
15

I think the biggest concern should be safety over aesthetics. My take: prioritize what helps you and others on the road!

16

I’ve been reading about blacked out tail lights, and it seems they can significantly reduce visibility, especially at night or in bad weather. This can make driving dangerous for you and other road users.

17

I completely agree! It’s surprising how many people don’t realize the dangers. My buddy had a close call because he couldn’t see a car with them at night.

18

Blacked out tail lights might look cool, but safety always comes first! I’m curious if law enforcement actually pulls people over for this.

19

I’ve had my tail lights tinted for aesthetics, but I keep the visibility high. It’s all about balance. Anyone else have problems with cops?

20

It’s definitely a gray area! I’ve heard varying opinions. Thanks for starting this discussion!