As you hit the roads in Indiana, you’re probably wondering what’s allowed in regards to underglow lighting on your vehicle. You’re not alone – many car enthusiasts want to customize their ride without running afoul of the law.
So, what’s the deal? Indiana’s laws are specific, and it’s essential to know the rules in terms of avoiding fines ranging from $100 to $150. Let’s break down what’s permitted and what’s not, so you can cruise safely and stylishly.
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Key Takeaways
- In Indiana, underglow lights are legal as long as they’re not visible from the front, don’t flash, and aren’t red or blue.
- Red and blue underglow lights are strictly prohibited to avoid confusion with emergency vehicle lights.
- Certain colors, like amber turn signals, are permitted, while others, like green, are restricted for non-emergency vehicles.
- Vehicles exempt from these laws include emergency vehicles, parade participants, and those with aftermarket lighting meeting safety standards.
- Failure to comply with Indiana’s underglow lighting laws can result in fines between $100 and $150, depending on the county.
Understanding Indiana’s Underglow Lighting Laws
When it pertains to customizing your vehicle’s appearance, understanding Indiana’s underglow lighting laws is crucial to avoid fines or citations.
In Indiana, underglow lighting is legal as long as it meets specific requirements. You can install underglow lights, but they mustn’t be visible from the front of your vehicle, and their use is typically restricted to when your vehicle is parked, not while driving.
Additionally, guarantee your underglow lights don’t flash and aren’t red or blue. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy legal underglow lighting that amplifies your vehicle’s appearance without risking fines or citations.
Restrictions on Underglow Lighting
In regards to underglow lighting on your vehicle in Indiana, you need to be aware of specific restrictions.
For instance, you can’t use red or blue underglow lights, as they might be mistaken for emergency vehicle lights.
In the matter of, the lights can’t be visible from the front of your vehicle, and they must be stationary, not flashing or blinking.
Color Restrictions Apply
Indiana’s underglow lighting laws impose specific color restrictions on vehicle owners.
You’re allowed to use underglow lights with certain colors, but not others. For instance, you can use red underglow lights, but only in the rear of your vehicle.
Blue lights, on the other hand, are strictly prohibited, as they may be confused with law enforcement vehicles.
It’s essential to understand these color restrictions to avoid fines or penalties. Make sure to check Indiana’s regulations before installing underglow lights to guarantee you’re complying with the law.
Underglow Lights Location
You’ll need to pay attention to where you install underglow lights on your vehicle, as Indiana’s laws dictate specific placement restrictions.
In the context of underglow lights location, you’ll need to guarantee they’re not obstructing your vehicle’s safety features.
- Underglow lights can’t be installed in a way that obstructs your vehicle’s brake lights, turn signals, or other safety features.
- They shouldn’t be placed in a manner that may distract or impair the driver’s vision.
- Additionally, underglow lights shouldn’t be installed on the front of your vehicle, as this is strictly prohibited.
Visible From Front Only
What’s the deal with underglow lights being visible from the front of your vehicle in Indiana?
The law says they can’t be visible from the front, period. Any lamp or device displaying light other than white or amber visible from directly in front of your vehicle is prohibited.
This rule applies to vehicles driven on highways, but exempts emergency vehicles that use specific colors like blue, green, or red.
Allowed and Prohibited Lights
When customizing your vehicle’s lighting, it’s essential to understand what’s permitted and what’s not in Indiana.
You should know that certain lights are restricted to guarantee road safety.
- Factory-installed LED lights with a blue-ish glow are allowed, but after-market lighting that adds non-standard colors is prohibited.
- Amber turn signals are permitted, and headlights or other lights on the front of a car must be white or amber.
- Emergency vehicle colors like red, blue, and green are restricted for use on non-emergency vehicles, as they can be confused with emergency lights.
Enforcement and Penalties
When it comes to enforcement and penalties, you’ll want to know that police have some discretion in issuing citations, and they may give you a heads-up on compliance before writing you up.
If you do get cited, the fine amount will vary by county, but expect it to fall between $100 and $150.
Fine Amounts
You’ll face fines ranging from $100 to $150 if you’re caught violating Indiana’s neon underglow lights law, but the exact amount will depend on the county you’re in.
The fine amount will vary, but it’s expected to be in line with other traffic violations.
- Each county will determine the fine amount, which will typically fall between $100-$150.
- The fine amount won’t be the same across all counties, so it’s essential to check with local authorities.
- The law doesn’t specify a deadline for compliance, but failure to comply will result in a fine.
Police Discretion
Indiana’s neon underglow lights law grants police officers a significant amount of discretion in terms of enforcement and penalties.
You should be aware that officers can decide whether to issue citations based on their judgment of the situation. They may consider if the underglow lighting is causing a distraction or hazard on the road.
During the initial period, police may provide warnings or clarification on compliance before issuing citations. However, failure to comply can result in a fine, which varies by county, typically ranging from $100 to $150.
Exceptions and Clarifications
The Indiana Code outlines specific exemptions and clarifications to the state’s neon underglow lights laws.
You should know that certain vehicles are exempt from these laws, including:
- Emergency vehicles, such as police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances, which are permitted to use amber or yellow vehicle lighting for warning purposes.
- Vehicles participating in parades, processions, or other special events, as long as they obtain the necessary permits and follow safety guidelines.
- Vehicles with aftermarket lighting installations that meet specific safety standards and don’t emit a red or blue glow visible from the front of the vehicle.
Additional Considerations
While installing neon underglow lights on your vehicle might seem like a fun way to customize its appearance, it’s essential to ponder the potential consequences of non-compliance with Indiana’s laws.
You should consider the specific rules governing after-market lighting and verify your installation meets the necessary standards. Failure to do so can result in fines, penalties, or even license suspension.
It’s vital to research and understand the regulations before making any modifications to your vehicle. By being aware of the laws and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy your custom lighting while avoiding potential legal issues.
New Law Overview
As of July 1, a new state law takes effect, banning colorful lights on vehicles and specifying strict color guidelines for headlights, taillamps, and stop lights.
This new law aims to clear confusion on the road by restricting non-standard colors on vehicles.
- Headlights or other lights on the front of a car must be white or amber.
- The stop light or taillamp must be red.
- Factory-installed LED lights with a blue-ish glow are legal, but after-market lighting that adds non-standard colors is prohibited.
Prohibition on Visible Lights
When driving in Indiana, you need to be aware of the restrictions on visible lights on your vehicle.
Specifically, you’re not allowed to display any color other than white or amber from the front of your vehicle, with some exemptions for certain types of vehicles.
These exemptions include vehicles that are required or authorized to display specific colors, such as blue, green, or red lights, which are typically reserved for emergency or official vehicles.
Front Light Restrictions
You’re not allowed to display certain colors of light from the front of your vehicle or equipment in Indiana.
The state has specific rules about the colors you can display from the front of your vehicle.
- Only white or amber lights are permitted from the front of your vehicle or equipment, unless you’re an emergency vehicle with specific exemptions.
- This rule applies to vehicles and equipment driven or moved on a highway.
- It’s essential to follow these rules, as they’re part of the Indiana Code and have undergone amendments to guarantee road safety and to certify compliance with traffic regulations.
Visible Color Prohibitions
The visible spectrum of your underglow lights is regulated in Indiana, and certain colors are strictly prohibited from being visible from the outside of your vehicle.
You’re not allowed to have any visible red or green lights that can be seen from the front, rear, or sides of your vehicle. This is because these colors are reserved for emergency and traffic control purposes.
However, you can still install LED lights with visible color prohibitions in mind. Blue lights are permitted, but only if they’re not flashing or rotating.
Guarantee you comply with these regulations to avoid any issues with law enforcement.
Exempted Vehicle Types
Not all vehicles are subject to Indiana’s underglow light restrictions.
You’ll find that certain exempted vehicle types are allowed to have lights that would otherwise be prohibited.
These vehicles are granted special permission to use underglow lights that are legal.
- Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars, are exempt from underglow light restrictions.
- Vehicles used for maintenance or construction purposes, like roadwork trucks, are also exempt.
- Farm tractors and other agricultural equipment are exempted vehicle types that can use underglow lights without worrying about Indiana’s laws.
Exempted Vehicles and Equipment
Certain vehicles and equipment are exempt from Indiana’s neon underglow lights laws.
You won’t find restrictions on emergency vehicles, like police cars, fire trucks, or ambulances, which often use amber or white lights to alert others.
Additionally, vehicles operated by public utility companies, like electric or gas companies, are exempt.
These vehicles often have special equipment mounted on the underside, which may emit a glow.
You’ll also find exemptions for vehicles equipped with license plate illumination devices, as long as they emit only a white light that doesn’t project a beam of light to the ground.
History of the Prohibition
You’re likely wondering how Indiana’s neon underglow lights laws came to be.
The prohibition on visible lights has a history that dates back to 1991 when it was first added by P.L.2-1991, SEC.9.
Since then, it has undergone amendments, including P.L.99-1991, SEC.3, and P.L.164-2018, SEC.15.
- The original citation for the prohibition was 9-8-6-29(b), part of the Indiana Code, Title 9, Article 21, Chapter 7.
- The prohibition aims to prevent confusion on the road by restricting the use of certain colors on vehicles.
- The legal framework surrounding the prohibition has evolved over time to address specific concerns and exemptions.
Penalties for Violations and Legal Proceedings
If you’re caught violating Indiana’s underglow lighting laws, you’ll face penalties that can impact your wallet and driving privileges.
You’ll receive a citation, which can usually be resolved with a fix-it ticket. Failure to respond may result in a default judgment, leading to additional fines, fees, or even a suspended driver’s license.
Penalties include fines ranging from $100 to $150, depending on the county.
If you receive a ticket, you can respond by admitting or denying responsibility, or requesting a hearing.
In case of disputes or Personal Injury Law concerns, it’s essential to seek legal advice to navigate the legal proceedings.
Private Property and Local Regulations
Private property owners and local authorities have some flexibility in regulating underglow lights within their jurisdictions.
You should be aware that private property rules can supersede state laws, so it’s essential to check with your landlord, homeowners association, or local government for specific regulations.
Additionally, local regulations may vary depending on the municipality or county.
- Some private properties may have stricter rules on underglow lights, so it’s vital to review your lease or property agreement.
- Local authorities can implement their own ordinances regarding underglow lights, which may be more restrictive than state laws.
- Be sure to research local regulations before installing underglow lights on your vehicle, especially if you plan to drive or park in areas with specific rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Color Underglow Is Legal in Indiana?
When customizing your car’s aesthetics, you’re wondering what color underglow is legal in Indiana. You’ll be glad to know that white, amber, and certain factory-installed LED lights are allowed, as long as they don’t flash, blink, or are visible from the front of your vehicle.
Is Neon Underglow Legal?
“When in doubt, doubt,” but in this case, you’re clear to shine on – neon underglow is legal, exploiting a legal loophole that allows for a mesmerizing neon aesthetic, as long as it’s not red or blue, that is.
Is It Legal to Have LED Lights in Your Car in Indiana?
You can make lighting modifications to your vehicle, but be aware of the rules. In Indiana, LED lights are allowed for vehicle customization, but guarantee they don’t flash, blink, or display restricted colors like red, blue, or green.
Conclusion
So, you’re all set to light up Indiana’s roads with your ride’s underglow lights? Remember, it’s vital to follow the state’s laws to avoid those hefty fines. Will you be able to resist the temptation to install that bright blue underglow, knowing it’s off-limits? By sticking to the allowed colors and meeting the requirements, you’ll guarantee a safe and legal ride. Stay informed, stay compliant, and enjoy the glow!
