4.45 Using rear fog lights – Rule 217
Rule 217 prohibits the use of “rear fog lights” other than in fog or hazardous weather
conditions. However, concern has been expressed by all jurisdictions that there is no
similar requirement for the use of “front fog lights”. The ARRMG agrees that “front fog
lights” should only be used in the same circumstances as “rear fog lights”. This will
endeavour to address the carnival effect of multitudes of lights operating on the front of
vehicles, which simply confuses drivers that are being approached. It is intended to
provide definitions of both front and rear fog lights, combine the rule to include both front
and rear, and modify the heading.
The proposed amendment will allow all fog lights fitted to a vehicle, to be used in fog or
other hazardous weather conditions, thereby bringing consistency to the rule.
Impact: Even though this will require a behavioural change for some drivers, it is not
anticipated there will be any adverse impact on all road users.
Costs: The only costs imposed by this amendment are those that accompany the making of
amendments and advice to enforcement agencies and education to drivers. It is expected
that the costs to enforcement agencies and road authorities through education, will be
absorbed in existing processes that provide contemporaneous legislative review.
Benefit: The benefits are to achieve a cohesive set of rules that reflect community needs
and expectations, which will assist in reducing road trauma and ensure consistency for the
use of both front and rear fog lights.
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