Is it Illegal to Have Blue Running Lights Underneath Your Motorcycle in Oregon?

Motorcycle enthusiasts often debate whether it's legal to install blue running lights underneath their motorcycles. This article explores the legality of such modifications in Oregon and provides guidance based on current laws and best practices from other jurisdictions.

General Understandings of Light Regulations

Across the United States, there are strict rules regarding the use of vehicle lights, with blue lighting generally restricted to police and emergency vehicles. This means that using blue lights on any non-emergency vehicle, including motorcycles, is typically illegal.

Specific Regulations in Oregon

The legality of blue running lights under a motorcycle in Oregon isn't clearly defined by specific state statutes. Instead, the situation may depend on interpretations of broader vehicle and traffic laws. Consulting Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) guidelines or local traffic regulations would be the most reliable way to determine if such modifications are permissible.

Prohibited and Permissible Light Colors

Most states, including California, have specific regulations about the types of light colors and the visibility of the lights on vehicles. According to California Vehicle Code 25955, only red or amber lights are allowed on a vehicle, with the exception of white headlights and yellow turn signals. While green underglow might be less noticeable, it is still technically illegal.

The general rule is that any visible light, regardless of color, from a vehicle should not be directly visible from in front. This means that blue lights, which can be easily seen from a distance, are likely to be considered illegal in most states.

Compliance and Enforcement

While many states allow colored indirect lighting on vehicles as long as it casts light toward the ground and not directly in front, there is no universal consensus. Police and other law enforcement entities are the primary enforcers of these rules, and their interpretation can vary. In many cases, if the blue lights are not too pronounced or distracting, law enforcement may give you a pass.

It is advisable to research and consult Oregon-specific laws and guidelines. These can often be found in the driver's license manual or on the official DMV website.

Conclusion

The legality of having blue running lights underneath a motorcycle in Oregon remains ambiguous. To stay on the safe side, it's best to adhere to the regulations detailed in state vehicle and traffic laws. Checking with the Oregon DMV or consulting with local traffic enforcement officers can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Understanding and complying with these rules not only helps you avoid legal trouble but also ensures that you are contributing to safer roads.