Is it a traffic violation to drive with interior lights on?
2 Answers
Driving with interior lights on is not considered a traffic violation and does not constitute running a red light. The following are the indications of motor vehicle and non-motor vehicle signal lights: 1. Green light: When the green light is on, vehicles are permitted to proceed, but turning vehicles must not impede the passage of straight-moving vehicles or pedestrians. 2. Yellow light: When the yellow light is on, vehicles that have already crossed the stop line may continue to proceed. 3. Red light: When the red light is on, vehicles are prohibited from proceeding. At intersections without non-motor vehicle or pedestrian crossing signal lights, non-motor vehicles and pedestrians should follow the motor vehicle signal light indications. When the red light is on, right-turning vehicles may proceed provided they do not impede the passage of other vehicles or pedestrians.
Having the interior light on while driving is generally not considered a direct traffic violation, as there are no explicit regulations in traffic laws regarding this. However, as someone who often drives at night, I believe it can be distracting and potentially lead to accidents. Once, my friend was looking at his phone with the light on while driving on the highway and failed to notice the car in front, resulting in a sudden brake that nearly caused a rear-end collision. Although the police didn’t fine him, it was a profound lesson. For safety, developing the habit of driving with the light off is crucial. It not only protects yourself but also avoids potential risks. After all, visibility is already poor at night, and any additional distraction could lead to serious problems. Simply put, it’s not illegal but unwise—safety comes first.
