Lighting

Reasons for rejection

Permitted equipment

1. A trailer is fitted with more than two high-mounted stop lamps (Note 1).

2. A lamp is not fitted in a central high-mounted position.

Condition

3. A lamp is insecure.

4. A lens is missing, or has a hole, crack or other damage that allows moisture or dirt to enter.

5. A reflector is damaged or has deteriorated so that light output is reduced.

Performance

6. When the service brake is activated, a lamp does not remain steadily illuminated.

7. A lamp operates when the service brake is not activated.

8. A lamp emits a light that:

a) is not substantially red, or

b) is not diffuse, or

c) is not projected to the rear, or

d) has insufficient light output to produce a light that is visible from 100m in normal daylight, eg due to modification, deterioration, dirt or an incorrect light source.

9. Where a lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), fewer than 75% of these operate.

Summary of legislation

Applicable legislation

• Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Lighting 2004.

Permitted equipment

1. A trailer may be fitted with one or two high-mounted stop lamps (Note 1).

2. A lamp must be fitted in a central high-mounted position at the rear of the trailer.

Condition

3. A high-mounted stop lamp must be in good condition.

Performance

4. A high-mounted stop lamp must operate in a way that is appropriate for the lamp and the vehicle.

5. The light emitted from a high-mounted stop lamp must be diffuse light that is substantially red.

6. A high-mounted stop lamp must emit a steady light.

7. Where a high-mounted stop lamp comprises an array of light sources (eg LEDs), at least 75% of these must operate.