FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why are some taillights supplied with extra red reflectors, and why do they need to be fitted to my car?
- <P>Clear or coloured taillights don't have any red reflective surfaces as required by law. In order to stay within the law, two red reflectors must be fitted to the rear of the car on which the lights are installed. Yes, it may not look nice, but it could save you a heap of cash if you're involved in an accident.
We know of somebody who ignored these instructions and didn't fit the reflectors. Another driver rode into the back of his car while it was parked in a dark lane, and because there were no reflectors his insurance company refused to pay out, arguing that the car wasn't road legal. He ended up paying for the damage to his own car as well as to that of the other driver. So if you choose not to fit the reflectors, please be aware of the consequences.
- Why is e-mark approval important?
- E-mark approval on a lamp basically means that it has been tested by an approved photometric laboratory and has achieved the standards laid down by the EC for fitment to a vehicle within the European Union.
There are other regulations which apply in the UK, such as those for Construction and Use, but broadly speaking, vehicles registered from 1986 onwards are required to have e-marked lights if they are used on a public road.
Given the fact that there could be insurance- or even legal implications if a vehicle without e-marked lights is involved in an accident, always follow the manufacturer or distributors guidelines when fitting & using styling lighting. Some lights, for instance, are not legal for road use, and if you do fit them to your car you assume all responsibility for any consequences thereof.
