Most people won’t know it, but daytime running lights (DRL) have been around since 1984, with the Volvo 240 being the first car to be equipped with them. Although no one remembers Volvo’s inclusion in the field of daytime running lights, what we do know is that these lighting elements have several security benefits for a technology that is not so recent. But what are they for? And even more so, are they mandatory to wear? Keep reading to find out.
Daytime running lights were originally popularized in parts of the world where daylight can often be dim and short-lived (see Nordic countries). They work very well as a way to identify the car using them with other cars on the road. And unlike headlights, they are not designed to illuminate the road ahead, nor do they have any function behind them (there is none). They are simply faint lights at the front of the vehicle that greatly facilitate the visibility of our car.
What are daytime running lights?
Daytime running lights are designed to make vehicles more visible to other road users. Are LED diodes which are generally integrated into the headlights, or in a separate section in the bumper.
Are they turn on automatically when the engine is running and turn off when the main headlights are in use, that is, at night. Whether you’ve admired a stylish “light signature” on a new car or frowned at glowing LEDs in a rearview mirror, they stand out.
Benefits of daytime running lights
Studies have shown that daytime running lights can reduce the risk of traffic accidents. A 1997 Canadian report showed a 5.7 percent drop in crashes involving passenger cars with DRLs installed, while a 2000 American study put the figure at 7 percent.
The European Union did not investigate the issue until 2003, but suggested a possible reduction of between 5 and 15%. In many new cars, the instrument panels are always illuminated, making it more difficult to tell when the headlights are on.
Are daytime running lights mandatory?
Daytime running lights were once the exclusive property of German cars premium. Now, the vast majority of new models have them installed. In fact, regarding the obligation to use lights, EU legislation dictates that all new vehicles sold since February 2011 They must equip DRL lights.
However, it’s worth noting that new cars released before that date don’t have to carry them: the rule only applies to models that have debuted (or significantly improved) since then.
Can I install daytime running lights?
If your car does not have daytime running lights, there are several kits aftermarket available. They generally cost from 30 euros, although you will have to take into account the cost of installation by a qualified electrician. Ideally, the daytime running lights should be programmed to turn off when the main headlights are on. If you have a separate switch for them, you should remember to turn them off at night.
In itself, the installation of DRLs is not mandatory, but it can help prevent an accident. Alternatively, you can use the low beams during the day, although they won’t be as bright as the daytime running lights. As far as light bulbs are concerned, It is advisable to review them regularlyas lights are an important part of visibility on the road, helping you and other road users stay safe.
Finally, it must be noted that the daytime running lights They should never be used as a replacement for low beam headlights in low light conditions.. Not only because they illuminate differently (the DRLs are made to see you, while the dipped ones offer extra lighting), also because there are no daytime running lights at the rear of the car. Unless you activate the car’s headlights when light levels begin to drop, the rear of the vehicle will not illuminate at all.
Daytime running lights are therefore a legal requirement, but Headlights should always be used in low light or reduced visibility conditions. DRLs have the sole purpose of making traveling around town or on the highway safer during the day.
