Question: I have automatic daytime running lights on my vehicle. Are these lights sufficient during inclement weather? Answer: No. During the 2003 Minnesota legislative session, Minnesota statute 169.48 was revised to specifically require both lighted headlights and taillights be displayed on every vehicle upon a roadway: o At any time from sunset to sunrise; o Any time it is raining, snowing, sleeting or hailing; and o Whenever visibility is impaired by weather, smoke, fog or other conditions, or there is not sufficient light to clearly see a person or vehicle 500 feet ahead. Automatic daytime running lights can make a vehicle more visible to other traffic during daytime hours and therefore reduce the likelihood of a crash. Drivers should be aware that most automatic lighting systems alone are not sufficient during inclement weather, when headlights and taillights are required. If you have questions pertaining to traffic-related laws or traffic safety, send those questions to Trooper Tim Rust, Minnesota State Patrol, 3725 12th St. N., St. Cloud, MN 56303.
