Do I need to turn on the parking lights when temporarily parking on the roadside?
3 Answers
Temporary parking on the roadside requires turning on the parking lights. Below is relevant information about temporary roadside parking: 1. Definition: Vehicles briefly stop on the right side of the road in the direction of traffic on non-prohibited road surfaces without the driver leaving the vehicle. The term "temporary" does not specify a fixed duration. Any brief stop where the driver remains in the vehicle is considered temporary parking. However, if traffic officers or the driver deem it obstructive, the vehicle must move promptly to avoid hindering others. 2. Relevant regulations: Doors must not be opened and passengers must not enter or exit before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Opening doors must not obstruct other vehicles or pedestrians. Parking is prohibited in areas with pedestrian guardrails (green barriers), crosswalks, construction zones (except for construction vehicles), and opposite obstacles.
It's quite necessary to turn on the parking lights when temporarily stopping by the roadside. As an experienced driver with over a decade behind the wheel, I remember one late night when I stopped to fix something and forgot to turn on the lights—a car behind almost rear-ended me. Since then, I've made it a habit. During nighttime or bad weather, parking lights make your vehicle's outline more visible, reducing the risk of accidental collisions. Traffic regulations also state that position lights must be turned on at night, in fog, or when visibility is low—failure to do so may result in a fine. When parking, avoid stopping too close to the center of the lane; maintaining a safe distance is crucial. I recommend always turning on the parking lights or hazard lights first when stopping, and only turning them off after checking everything before leaving. Safe driving is all about details, and starting with proper lighting can save you a lot of trouble. On a related note, don't neglect vehicle light maintenance—replace aging bulbs promptly to avoid being left in the dark at critical moments.
As someone who frequently studies traffic regulations, turning on the parking lights during temporary roadside stops should indeed be incorporated into safe driving habits. Laws and regulations typically stipulate that in non-standard parking situations, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions, using position lights helps others identify the vehicle's location. From my personal experience, the chances of the vehicle being noticed are significantly higher with the parking lights on, thereby avoiding rear-end collisions. For instance, parking on city streets without lights can lead to misjudgment of distance by others. Failure to do so not only risks fines but may also lead to disputes. In this regard, it's advisable to use hazard lights in conjunction to enhance visibility, and avoid turning off the engine immediately after parking to ensure stable lighting. Although daily driving rules may seem trivial, such details are crucial for prevention. Also, don't forget to check the vehicle's emergency toolkit in case of unexpected needs.
