Is underglow illegal in the UK?

In the UK, underglow lights (also known as car underglow lights or neon car lights) are not inherently illegal, but there are certain rules and regulations that can make their use problematic if they don’t comply with road safety standards. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

Key Regulations for Underglow Lights in the UK

1. Roadworthiness Requirements (MOT):

   • Underglow lights that are fitted to a car must not cause a hazard or be distracting to other drivers.
   • The car must remain roadworthy to pass the MOT test. If underglow lights are deemed to be unsafe or could interfere with the driver’s vision or cause distraction, they could fail the test.

2. Color of Lights:

   • Blue or red underglow lights on cars are prohibited for road use. Blue lights are generally reserved for emergency vehicles (police, ambulance, etc.), and red lights are reserved for rear indicators or brake lights.
   • If you use blue or red underglow lights while driving, it could be seen as impersonating an emergency vehicle or causing confusion for other road users, which could lead to fines or penalties.

3. Illegal for Use While Driving:

   • It is illegal to use underglow lights while driving on the road if they are flashing or are too bright, creating a hazard or distracting other road users.
   • Underglow lights must not interfere with other vehicles’ lights or obstruct visibility. The lights must be fixed in a way that they are not distracting or visible from the front or rear of the vehicle in a way that could be confusing to other drivers.

4. Use While Parked:

   • If you’re parked and not on public roads, underglow lights are generally acceptable for show purposes (e.g., at a car show or for personal use), as long as the vehicle is not causing a public disturbance.

5. Visibility and Impact on Other Drivers:

   • Underbody lights that are too bright or cause glare can be deemed as distracting or hazardous to other road users. It's essential that the underglow is not too bright or reflective to avoid violating road safety laws.
   • Lights must not be visible from the driver’s seat when the vehicle is in motion (i.e., they should not interfere with visibility).

6. Local Authority Rules:

   • Different regions or local authorities might have specific regulations about lighting modifications, so it's important to check local rules regarding the use of underglow lights.

What Happens if You Break the Rules?

If you are caught using illegal underglow lights (e.g., red or blue lights), you could face:

• Fines: Penalties for violating traffic regulations can include fines.
• Vehicle Impoundment: In extreme cases, your vehicle may be impounded if the modifications make it unsafe to drive.
• Driving Offenses: In severe cases, using underglow lights could lead to a driving offense (e.g., causing a distraction or using illegal lights).

Summary:

• Underglow lights are legal if they are not distracting, are not red or blue, and don’t impair your vehicle’s roadworthiness.
• Ensure the lights are not flashing while driving, and that they don’t interfere with your visibility or that of other drivers.
• Use of underglow lights is acceptable when parked, but they should not cause a public nuisance.

For peace of mind, always ensure the underglow lights are discreet, safe, and comply with UK regulations to avoid fines or penalties while driving.