Search found 3 matches

by Keith B
Thu Feb 17, 2011 11:39 am
Forum: LEO Contacts & Bloopers
Topic: Motorcycle Lighting Question for LEO
Replies: 61
Views: 25279

Re: Motorcycle Lighting Question for LEO

WildBill wrote:
Keith B wrote:Here is a FAQ from the DPS that tries to address the issue but doesn't clarify the legality. See question 10 http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/msb/msbfaqs.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
That is a very interesting answer to the question.
Yeah. I read it to say that unless the lighting is factory equipment, per the state law it is not allowed, but federal it is. I think the real answer links back to my original post that the officer can make the discretionary call that the lighting is a distraction to other drivers and can have the motorcycle rider turn it off. As for a citation, they might have a hard time making a ticket stick, but they can hassle you and make you take it to court.

Here is a similar response that was supposedly sent to someone from the DPS PIO (Public Information Officer) about this http://www.oznium.com/forum/topic4154" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;. Kinda states the issue about having to prove it was not illegal in court.
by Keith B
Thu Feb 17, 2011 11:04 am
Forum: LEO Contacts & Bloopers
Topic: Motorcycle Lighting Question for LEO
Replies: 61
Views: 25279

Re: Motorcycle Lighting Question for LEO

Here is a FAQ from the DPS that tries to address the issue but doesn't clarify the legality. See question 10 http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/msb/msbfaqs.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
by Keith B
Thu Feb 17, 2011 10:45 am
Forum: LEO Contacts & Bloopers
Topic: Motorcycle Lighting Question for LEO
Replies: 61
Views: 25279

Re: Motorcycle Lighting Question for LEO

AustinMRH wrote:Similarly, what about the flashing bulb tail lights? I feel much safer with mine than I did without them, but they flash. I've got a super cheap one that just flashes, I've seen ones though that flash for the first 2-5 seconds then remain fully lit. Thing is, the only time I've been clipped is when I was fully stopped and the guy behind me didn't realize I was there and was going to stop right on the tail of the car in front of me. Full flash would have been nice.
Red flashing to the rear for a stop lamp, turn signal or warning flasher is legal. Amber (yellow) flashing anywhere on the vehicle is legal. No blue or white flashing unless on an approved construction or emergency vehicle.

As for the LED question, as you mentioned, the transportation code really doesn't address it from a state level. It could be considered as distractive by some officers and that may be why they ask you to turn it off, but they would have to write you on something else I think. Also, the combination of them all may be more than 300 candlepower, but I doubt it.

I do believe some cities have adopted ordinances on what auxiliary lighting is allowed, but not 100% positive on that.

Return to “Motorcycle Lighting Question for LEO”