How Parking Lights Work

Any automobile created in or after the 1970's has a standard wiring for its parking lights and headlights. Also, it is not possible to turn on the parking lights individually on any one side in the modern cars. The location of these parking lights is different from one car to another. But in the majority of cars, these lights maintain their traditional location, which is at the outer part of the headlights.

When Are They Used?

• Parking lights in cars have become unnecessary when it comes to their traditional usage, due to wider and well lit roads. Normally, if you stop or park at the road side, the hazard light of the vehicle is used instead of the parking lights, despite the fact that using the parking lights consume less battery.
• Parking lights are useful to drivers who need just a small amount of light, to allow them to park in their own home garage or parking area, and do not wish to draw the attention of other people to themselves by using the blaring headlamps.
• These lights are put to use in low-light driving, for example, in twilight hours, and they also function as daytime lamps. The consumption of car battery is not a problem when the engine is running.

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Driving Regulations with Parking Lights

In certain parts of America, it is illegal to drive an automobile with the parking lights on. Breaking this law could cause you being charged a ticket. In some states, this regulation only applies during night driving, and even encourage using parking lights as daytime lights. A law written within this concept is a part of the motor guidelines and regulations of many states.

No automobile should be driven with the parking lights switched on, except in situations when these lights are used as turn signal lights, or when the headlamps are also used.

Before turning on your parking lights, make sure you know the local driving guidelines. Besides being given a fine if you violate the law, you are also placing your car and yourself in danger particularly when it is dark outside. Use your parking lights only when required and allowed by the law.