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Is a rear fog light compulsory on a trailer?
- Updated:
- By: Kevin van Mierlo
Contents
The short answer
Rear fog lights are essential for road safety, particularly in poor visibility or severe weather conditions. But is a rear fog light compulsory on a trailer? And in which situations is it necessary?
In this blog you will read:
What about the regulations and mounting requirements according to the ECE R48 regulation.
Is a fog light compulsory on a trailer?
Yes, a rear fog light is mandatory, depending on the weight and year of manufacture of the trailer, in accordance with the European ECE R48 regulation. Namely:
Trailers up to 750 kg:
- Since 1 July 2006, trailers must be fitted with at least one rear fog light, unless the towing vehicle does not have a rear fog light.
Trailers weighing over 750 kg:
- A rear fog light is compulsory for trailers manufactured after 31 December 1997.
- For trailers manufactured before this date, there is no such requirement.
Mounting requirements for rear fog light
A rear fog light must be fitted in the centre or to the left of the centre flat of the trailer.
- Number and position: for 1 rear light: positioned left of centre or in the middle. In the case of 2 rear fog lights: symmetrically on the left and right of the rear.
- Height: between 0.25 metres and 1.20 metres above the road surface.
- Distance from other lighting: at least 10 cm from the nearest brake light to avoid confusion.
- Activation: The rear fog light may only function when the low beam or high beam lights of the towing vehicle are on.
Two fog lights: These are fitted symmetrically on the left and right of the rear.
Important when using the rear fog light
When coupling a trailer fitted with its own rear fog light, it is essential to switch off the towing vehicle’s rear fog light immediately.
This prevents the light from reflecting off the trailer, which can lead to reduced visibility and even dangerous glare for other road users.
It is very important to always check that your vehicle and trailer are fitted with this feature. Particularly in foggy conditions, this contributes to optimum safety and improved visibility on the road. Avoid risks by making sure you don’t forget to carry out this check!
More about the European ECE R48 regulations
In this blog, we have based our discussion on the rules and fitting instructions set out in the European ECE R48 regulation. This regulation shapes all legal requirements concerning vehicle lighting in Europe.
View our full range of trailer lighting.
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Kevin van Mierlo
Lighting expert at TRALERT® - Kevin tests lighting and finds out everything about legislation. He can tell you all about it.
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