Shedding Light on Trailer Safety: Choosing the Right Trailer Lights
When it comes to trailer safety, lighting is non-negotiable. Properly functioning and correctly positioned lights are essential for ensuring that your trailer is not only visible on the road but also compliant with regulations. In Canada, specific lighting requirements must be met depending on the size and type of trailer, including tail lamps, stop lamps, and side marker lamps.
Different Trailers, Different Lighting Needs
Trailers come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own set of lighting needs. Whether you’re towing a utility trailer, a car hauler, or something custom-built, the right lighting setup is crucial for both safety and legality. Unfortunately, a common issue with older or custom-built trailers is the absence of the required lighting or improper installation. This not only increases the risk of accidents but also exposes you to potential legal issues.
Understanding Trailer Lighting Options
When it comes to choosing the right lights for your trailer, there are several options available, each with its own advantages:
- LED Lights: Known for their brightness and energy efficiency, LED lights are becoming the go-to choice for many trailer owners. They last longer and are more resistant to vibrations, making them ideal for rough terrains.
- Halogen Lights: A traditional option, halogen lights provide a strong, focused beam of light. While they may not last as long as LEDs, they are a reliable choice for many trailers.
- Incandescent Lights: Though less common today, incandescent lights are still used in some trailers. They offer a softer light but consume more energy and have a shorter lifespan compared to LEDs and halogens.
Trailer lights also come in various shapes, types, and colors to fit every style and function. Whether you need round, oval, or rectangular lights, or specific colors like red for brake lights and amber for turn signals, there’s a wide range to choose from.
Essential Trailer Lights: Front, Sides, and Rear
To ensure your trailer is fully equipped, it’s important to understand the specific lights required in different areas of the trailer:
- Front Lights: The front of the trailer typically requires white or amber lights, such as clearance lights or identification lights. These lights help indicate the width of the trailer, especially in low-visibility conditions.
- Side Lights: Sides of the trailer need both front and rear side marker lights, which are amber and red, respectively. Reflectors are also commonly installed on the sides to enhance visibility from various angles.
- Rear Lights: The back of the trailer is equipped with a variety of lights, including tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals. Red is the standard color for these lights, with additional lights like license plate lights and rear reflectors also required to ensure the trailer is visible to other drivers.
Your One-Stop Shop for Trailer Lighting
No matter what type of trailer you own or what lighting needs you have, we’ve got you covered. From LEDs to halogens to incandescent lights, our PJ Trailers Canada stores carry every kind of trailer light you might need. Ensuring your trailer is properly lit not only keeps you safe but also ensures you stay on the right side of the law. So, don’t take any chances—equip your trailer with the best lights today!
