Fog running lights. Running lights, dipped beam and fog lights: what does the SDA say and what threatens to violate the rules? Transition to new rules of the road

Foam guns 10.04.2022
Foam guns

They tell us that on moving vehicles, according to the rules, daytime running lights or dipped headlights must be on, which will clearly indicate the car on the roadway.

allows drivers to use fog lights during the day instead of running lights or low beam headlights.

The Code of Administrative Offenses establishes in two articles penalties for lack of daylight:

  1. It says that if the driver simply broke the rules, then he will receive warning or fine.

    This includes the situation when the driver forgot to turn on the light.

  2. says that the same fine can be received if the running lights or dipped beam are faulty, this is another violation in which vehicle is prohibited.

    Malfunctions include, for example, broken bulbs or too dirty headlights.

The Rules of the Road indicate that, subject to safety measures, it is possible to drive with these malfunctions to the place of repair or parking. On this issue, the SDA and the Code of Administrative Offenses contradict each other.

Penalty for violation

A car moving without light falls under two articles of the Code of Administrative Offenses. For driving with the headlights off, the employee has the right to issue a written warning and release the negligent motorist, or may issue a fine in the amount of 500 rubles.

If the running lights or dipped beam are faulty, then driving on such a vehicle is prohibited. The code provides for the same type of punishment: a warning or a fine of 500 rubles.

There are also several nuances associated with running lights:

  1. You can get a penalty if drive with running lights in the evening and at night- You should switch to low beam.
  2. If fog lights were switched on instead of running lights, you should also remember to switch to low beam when evening comes, otherwise a fine cannot be avoided.
  3. The penalty is inevitable if a traffic police officer sees homemade running lights. In vehicles where they are not provided, daytime running lights may be fitted, but this must first be approved.
  4. If the running lights are not installed correctly and blind other drivers, this also falls under the article. There is a standard that describes exactly how these lights should be configured - GOST R 41.48-2004.

Who determines the degree of responsibility?

The traffic police officer on the spot decides whether to issue a fine or limit himself to a warning. He looking at the situation how the driver behaves, how often he had violations, other mitigating or aggravating circumstances.

Rather the human factor. But at the first such violation, you can count on a written warning.

If the car gets in with the outside lights not on, it automatically becomes the culprit of the accident! Even if he complied with all other traffic rules and was not actually to blame.

Driving without running lights or daytime running lights on automatically creates an emergency situation on the road, because the car becomes less visible to other road users.

If the traffic police officer is going to issue a fine, and the driver does not agree, then protocol is written first and then a decision is made.

The driver has the right to challenge the decision of the traffic police officer in the traffic police department or in court if he has arguments in his defense. To do this, in the protocol it is necessary to describe as accurately as possible what the driver does not agree with, what the road conditions were.

It is desirable to provide a photo or video confirming the absence of a violation. In special cases, even a dictaphone recording of a conversation with a traffic police officer can help the driver! The driver has only 10 days to appeal.

Penalties for non-included running lights are small - this is the minimum fine for. But the importance of switched on, and most importantly, correctly switched on lights is very often underestimated by road users.

If the car is without a designating backlight, it can simply be overlooked or misleading other drivers. Such carelessness can lead to serious accidents.

Therefore, for your own safety, never forget to turn on the daytime running lights or low beam- declare your presence on the road!

Good afternoon, dear readers.

I think that you have already heard many times that from November 20, 2010 come into force and that from that moment it will be necessary to use Daytime Running Lights.

However, in this article I will not consider the changes in the rules for the use of lighting devices themselves. It will be about how you can use light fixtures before November 20, how - after this date.

Those. we'll talk about the best way to go from driving with low beams off to driving with them on. Let me remind you that less than three months are left before these changes to the rules come into force, so it's time to think about the issue of their study and implementation.

I immediately warn you that in this article we will consider the use of lighting devices only in daylight hours.

Use of lighting fixtures until November 20, 2010

Currently, when driving during daylight hours, some categories of vehicles must turn on the dipped headlights. This is evidenced by the paragraph:

19.5. When driving during daylight hours, in order to indicate a moving vehicle, the dipped headlights must be switched on:

  • on motorcycles and mopeds;
  • when moving in an organized transport convoy;
  • on route vehicles moving along a specially allocated lane towards the main traffic flow;
  • with organized transportation of groups of children;
  • when transporting dangerous, bulky and heavy cargo;
  • when towing motor vehicles (on a towing vehicle);
  • when driving outside built-up areas.

I note that the listed vehicles must use dipped headlights. However, this does not mean that other vehicles cannot do the same.

The use of fog lights is described in:

19.4.

  • in conditions of insufficient visibility, both separately and with dipped or main beam headlights;
  • instead of dipped headlights under the conditions provided for in clause 19.5 of the Rules.

Notice the fog lights can be used. Those. may or may not be used. Accordingly, even if your car is equipped with fog lights, you can never turn them on. Conversely, you can always drive with the fog lights on.

As for daytime running lights, they are not mentioned at all in the current version of the traffic rules. Well, since this type of lighting device turns on simultaneously with the start of the car engine, you don’t need to remember about it at all.

Let's summarize. At present, during daylight hours, only the vehicles listed in paragraph 19.5 shall have their lights switched on. The rest of the vehicles can also turn them on as needed.

Use of lighting fixtures after November 20, 2010

After November 20, 2010, the text of paragraph 19.5 of the rules of the road will be significantly reduced, however, the group of vehicles that it will cover will increase significantly:

19.5. During daylight hours, all moving vehicles must turn on dipped beam headlights or daytime running lights to identify them.

Now low beam headlights should be on on all vehicles and always. He also had an alternative - the use of daytime running lights, which are always on anyway.

With regard to fog lamps, paragraph 19.4 has undergone minor changes:

19.4. Fog lights can be used:

  • in conditions of insufficient visibility with low or high beam headlights;
  • at night on unlit sections of roads together with dipped or main beam headlights;
  • instead of dipped headlights in accordance with clause 19.5 of the Rules.

Therefore, fog lights are also an alternative to low beams.

Let's summarize. After November 20, 2010, each vehicle must have at least one of the following lighting devices switched on: dipped beam, daytime running lights, fog lights.

Transition to new rules of the road

In this part of the article, we will consider how it is better to switch to the new rules of the road for drivers of various cars.

Owners are the luckiest cars with daytime running lights. They don't need to think about anything at all. They can ride before and after November 20 according to the same rules.

Although in fact the situation of such cars will even improve, because. they will no longer be required to turn on the dipped beam outside the city, when towing, etc.

That is, on such a car it will be possible to simply get behind the wheel and go without thinking about the use of lighting devices.

The same drivers whose cars not equipped with daytime running lights, it is recommended to switch to new ones as follows.

Approximately 10-15 days before November 20, 2010 i.e. November 5-10, you need to start using dipped headlights when driving during the day. Fog lights can also be used. The choice depends on your preference.

If there are those who wish, they can start using dipped headlights or PTF right now, the existing rules do not prohibit this.

A few years ago, special changes were made to the traffic rules and technical regulations, according to which, since 2010, all car owners are required to turn on the appropriate optics when driving on the roadway, both in the daytime and in the evening. At first, drivers got by with daytime running lights, but their use turned out to be irrational, since in traffic jams there was a risk of discharging the car's battery, and the light from such light elements did not meet the requirements of GOST. In this regard, DRLs (DRL) appeared on store shelves, which differ in the direction of the light beam, due to which the ATS becomes much more noticeable on the road.

According to the SDA, fog lights can be used instead of daytime running lights, but only if they meet certain standards. And, as you know, halogen lamps are most often installed in PTF, which do not differ in sufficient brightness. In addition, the color of the glow in foglights is usually yellow, and according to GOST, when driving in the daytime, it is allowed to use headlights that shine only with white light.

Due to numerous shortcomings, it is easier for car owners to choose DRLs that will be installed as separate modules than to puzzle over how to pass the TRP. However, today such lighting elements as fog lamps with daytime running lights have appeared on the market, which so far not all companies specializing in automotive optics offer consumers.

Manufacturers of PTF with DRL

Speaking about PTF manufacturers with DRLs, we will not consider Chinese products from nameless companies, which can be found in large quantities in the open spaces of online stores offering goods for every taste. Such "super-bright" daytime running lights will cost about 7,000 rubles, and according to representatives of the portals, they will perform a myriad of functions.

If we take the issue more seriously, then today there are 2 companies that occupy a leading position in the production of high-quality optics for cars - these are Osram and Philips. The latter does not yet offer such universal lamps, and Osram, on the contrary, is almost the only company that produces high-quality PTFs with DRLs that can be purchased on the territory of the Russian Federation. Such a pleasure will cost about 16,000 rubles, but given that the products are branded and will last 10 times longer than their Chinese counterparts, then such costs are justified. At the same time, Osram gives a guarantee of up to 5 years for its products.

The model range of universal lamps is still rather scarce and is represented by Osram LEDriving FOG 101 headlights, and many motorists also purchase products from the LEDriving FOG 201 series. Consider the features of these headlights.

Osram LEDriving FOG 101

LED headlights with a diameter of 90 mm are suitable for replacing conventional round halogen foglights. The lens of the LEDriving FOG 101 is made of high quality impact-resistant polymer material and the body is made of aluminum alloy. The headlights of this series are as many as three devices in one: fog lamps, running lights and a section for illuminating the angle of rotation. The color temperature of the PTF is 6000 K at a power of 20 W, and the DRL is 5200 K at a power of 14 W. Product warranty - 5 years.

Daytime running lights turn on when the engine is started, and turn off as soon as the dimensions or PTF are activated. The backlight, thanks to the adaptive cornering light function, is automatically activated when the turn signal is turned on. Complete with headlights comes a control unit, a set of fasteners and instructions.

Among the advantages of LEDriving FOG 101 headlights, car owners highlighted energy savings and excellent dust and moisture protection characteristics. The only drawback is that it is impossible to replace individual LEDs that have failed.

The manufacturer also offers to get acquainted with the list of car models with which these headlights are compatible. To see the official list, click on the picture below (on the arrow in the upper right corner) and download the opened file.

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If we talk about the headlight installation scheme, then you practically don’t have to interfere with the electrician, so you can do the installation yourself.

Osram LEDriving F1 (LEDFOG201)

Unlike its predecessor, this PTF model costs almost half as much (about 7,000 rubles). What is the reason for such a difference in price?

The diameter of these headlights is 114 mm, and the warranty is given not for 5, but for 3 years. The differences don't end there. According to the specifications on the Osram website, this model does not function as a DRL. However, given that daytime running lights are designed for daytime lighting and must have a color temperature of 5,000 to 6,000 K, then the headlights of this series may well pass for DRL.

Compared to the LEDriving FOG 101, the 201 is not packaged in foam rubber, but in regular cardboard. In this case, the kit contains only a plug for a standard fog light connector and a coupler. If such shortcomings do not scare you, then you can install this cheaper analogue, although in this case you will have to break your head a little about installation. The fact is that there are no additional blocks for these headlights (all electronics are located inside). One connector on the headlight is different, and an additional wire comes from the second headlight. In this case, the manufacturer decided to "get too smart".

In custody

When choosing foglights with built-in running lights, it is better to give preference to trusted manufacturers. Nameless companies offering fakes do not guarantee the quality and compliance with the declared characteristics, therefore, with such "analogues" it may be difficult to pass MOT.

The Code of Administrative Offenses provides for a fine for driving without DRLs turned on during the daytime. Many European and Scandinavian countries have been using this practice for many years, and other countries are adopting such policies from their neighbors. It is for this reason that we decided to consider in more detail the concept of daytime running lights, their types, purpose, requirements and other aspects of this topic.

What are daytime running lights

Daytime running lights are marker lights (headlights) that are used for daytime lighting. There are both regular (installed by the factory) and installed additionally. Thanks to the use of such dimensions, the vehicle is better seen by others.

The presence of DRLs improves the visibility of your car to pedestrians and other motorists, this factor significantly reduces the risk of a car accident.

According to statisticians, after the introduction of amendments to the traffic rules, the number of car accidents in our country has halved.

The absence of regular navigation lights entails the use by drivers as an analogue of other light sources that are not prohibited by law. Let's look at the types and classifications of such analogues.

DRL classification

high beam headlights is the most efficient way to use it. This type of headlight is installed on every car, it should be used only in the absence of oncoming cars, in order to avoid their blinding, and it is better at night.

But as an analogue for DRL, in the daytime, you can use a high beam in half a channel, the option is interesting in that it provides catchiness, and due to the incomplete power of use, energy consumption is reduced.

With the right connection, the high beam can be used by 30%, and make it turn on automatically, which is what a large number of motorists use. But you should be extremely careful and attentive, since the use of high beam headlights requires certain knowledge and qualifications.

Low beam headlights- the most common method that is used as DRL. Since these headlights do not require additional settings and intervention from the driver. Just turn it on and you're good to go. The disadvantage of using dipped beam is the high energy consumption, which can affect the battery charge. Also, according to the law, the use of dipped headlights as an analogue of daytime running lights is allowed.

Fog lights- the name speaks for itself, this type of dimensions is not designed for use as a DRL, it is designed for use in foggy weather and with insufficient visibility. An absolute plus is, of course, energy consumption. The disadvantage of this option is that the headlights are located too low and the light of such headlights is often yellow, which reduces visibility in the daytime. Also, the power of the headlights is lower than in other options. Nevertheless, the use of this type of dimensions, as an analogue of DRL, is not prohibited.

Additional (independent) lights- the most ideal option for using dimensions as a DRL. These headlights are designed for daylight use. As already mentioned, such headlights on many cars are not installed regularly, this is precisely the minus of this option. Connection and installation will require certain costs. It will also be necessary to make changes to the design of the factory assembly of the car, which you should not do on your own, without experience and skills in this direction. Unconditional pluses are durability, brightness, minimum power consumption.

There are lamp and LED variations of additional headlights. An unconditional plus, and probably the only one, of lamp products is cheapness. LED running lights have the advantages of low power consumption, high brightness and long service life. Also, the LED variation is much less blind to oncoming drivers.

  1. Philips LED DayLight8
  2. HELLA LEDayFlex 8,
  3. Osram Led Riving FOG
  4. EgoLight DRL-D70/DRL-120Р18

Regulatory requirements for DRL

When choosing a DRL for your car, be sure to pay attention to the fact that the headlights must comply with the standards established by GOST.

  1. The presence of two dimensions on the vehicle. The headlights must be on the front of the vehicle, to fully verify this condition, the light emitted by the headlights should not be reflected in mirrors or other mirror surfaces.
  2. At a height of at least 25 and not more than 150 centimeters from the ground. Between two headlights, a distance of no more than 60 centimeters must be observed. From the dimensions to the extreme point of the car - no more than 40 centimeters. The direction of the headlights must always be forward.
  3. The daytime running lights should turn on automatically when the ignition is turned on. Shutdown is also automatic - when the car changes to other dimensions, if necessary.
  4. It is required to observe the angle at which the light will come out. Horizontal plane - 200. Vertical plane - 100. Pay special attention to this point, since it is it that drivers most often violate.
  5. And the main parameter is the use of lights only white light, for the use of other colors you can be fined.

SDA requirements

Consider the requirements for daytime running lights, which are established by law and specified in the traffic rules. On November 20, 2010, an amendment was made that obliges the use of DRLs during the daytime. In paragraph 3.3. it is also said that you cannot use a vehicle on which the dimensions used to consecrate the vehicle are dirty.

If your DRLs are not installed according to the GOST rules that we studied above, you can also fall under the penalties of the Code of Administrative Offenses.

To install additional headlights that are planned to be used as DRLs, you will need to obtain permission from the traffic police; we do not recommend installing it yourself, even if all the rules are followed.

Please note that even if you installed DRLs with minor violations, and the traffic police did not notice this, at the next technical inspection it will be revealed that the installation took place without permission, and this will entail additional costs.

Responsibility for traffic violations

For violating traffic rules, you can get a fine of 500 rubles from a traffic police officer, and this is for the lack of light from one headlight. For the first time, you can get off with a warning. Let's also take a superficial look at what other types of violations you can get a fine for.

I am glad to welcome everyone to our site! Today, in the heading "" let's talk about this: is it a violation of traffic rules to use fog lights (PTF) instead of daytime running lights (DRL) as well as low beam headlights.

You all know that according to paragraph 19.5 of the traffic rules of the Russian Federation "During daylight hours, all moving vehicles must turn on dipped beam headlights or daytime running lights to indicate them." In this regard, many motorists have counter questions, namely: is it possible to use dimensions instead of DRL, or PTF, and whether this will be a violation of the rules, which may entail a protocol and a corresponding fine.

Some motorists were not just confused, they were outraged and puzzled by the question of why turn on running lights during daylight hours, and even more so dipped beam? The fact is that studies have shown that, moving along the highway at high speeds, drivers respond better to vehicles with DRLs or dipped beam headlights on. This allows you to notice the approaching transport in time and perform the maneuver in time. In general, in a word, turning on the light during the day is aimed at reducing accidents that occur during the daytime.

This seems to have been sorted out, but what about the differences between DRLs or parking lights?

The problem is that the design of modern headlights sometimes confuses car owners very seriously, who themselves do not fully understand that they have turned on running lights or dimensions. Why is this so critical? Yes, because DRL is allowed to be used as a light source, this will not be a violation and will not entail penalties. What can not be said about the "dimensions" you can not use them instead of daytime running lights, as well as dipped beam headlights! That is why this moment is very important.

Why are side lights banned, what is wrong with them? The fact is that "dimensions", unlike DRLs, serve to designate a vehicle in the dark, while in the daytime they are of little use. The light that they emit is not enough in the daytime, because it is very weak and inconspicuous (power of the order of 5 watts), therefore it is forbidden to use them instead of low beam, as well as daytime running lights. Brightness according to GOST (GOST R 41.48-2004) should be in the range from 400 to 800 candela.

It would seem that there are simply no daytime running lights - turn on the dipped one and live in peace ... But, not everything is so simple. The fact is that the constantly on dipped beam leads to premature failure of the lamps, the price of which can reach several hundred dollars. In addition, it has been proven that headlights increase fuel consumption (about 0.5 liters per 100 km), the cost of which has recently made no one happy ... In short, whatever one may say, it is not profitable to drive with the neighbor constantly on.

What about foglights, can they be used instead of low beam and DRL?

This question, as it turned out, worries many, and here's why. The fact is that not everyone has daytime running lights, as we found out, it is impossible to drive on dimensions, and turning on the dipped one is not profitable from an economic point of view. But everyone has mail for fogs, and besides, they are less voracious in terms of energy consumption. But the question is, is it possible to use PTF instead of DRL? The answer to this question can be found in the SDA.

clause 9.4. Fog lights can be used:

  • in conditions of insufficient visibility with low or high beam headlights;
  • at night on unlit sections of roads together with dipped or main beam headlights;
  • instead of dipped headlights in accordance with clause 19.5 of the Rules.

The only caveat is that on some cars, fog lights work exclusively with low beam headlights, so many refuse such an alternative to daytime running lights.

Summing up

As you can see, there is a way out. You can ride in the middle if you don't care too much about fuel consumption and crushing bulb life. You can also use PTF if they are installed on your car, this will not be a violation of the rules and there will be no questions from the inspectors for you. The third option is to install daytime running lights. DRL consumes significantly less energy compared to low beam headlights, as well as PTF, while they shine brighter than the dimensions and are clearly visible at any time of the day - therefore, they are the most profitable and acceptable option!

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