A new vehicle lighting safety standard from Transport Canada takes action on vehicles that drive in the dark with no lights on, also known as “phantom vehicles.”
By 2021, all new vehicles sold in Canada will need to be more visible in low light conditions by meeting one of three requirements:
- Have daytime running lights and tail lights come on when the vehicle instrument panel is illuminated and the vehicle is in operation;
- Automatically turn on the headlights, tail lights and side marker lights in low light conditions; or
- Keep the driver’s instrument panel dark so the driver knows to turn on all the lights.
“Phantom vehicles have been a nuisance and a safety risk on Canadian roads for many years and I’m proud our government is doing something about it,” said Minister of Transport Marc Garneau in a news release. “The new measures we’re taking will improve nighttime visibility and safety for all Canadian road users.”
While the new standard applies to vehicles sold as of September 1, 2021, the ministry reminds Canadians that current vehicles are still at risk of becoming phantom vehicles if all the lights are not turned on in low light. Some drivers believe an illuminated instrument panel means the headlights and taillights are already on, which may not be the case.
To raise awareness about phantom vehicles and vehicle lighting, Transport Canada has teamed up with the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) to renew its “See and Be Seen” campaign.
Quick Facts:
- It is illegal to drive in all Canadian jurisdictions without headlights illuminated during low visibility conditions.
- Phantom vehicles are one of the most frequent concerns raised by Canadians in writing with Transport Canada’s motor vehicle safety team.
- The new lighting safety standard will update section 108 (lighting system and retroreflective devices) of Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations.
- Canada’s new lighting safety standard is aligned with the United States in order to help economic growth, trade, and shipping on both sides of the border, without compromising safety.
