Do you know that car headlights are a dangerous element of road safety? Yes, these elements can provoke an accident, and the state of Massachusetts in the United States is doing something about it. The state is implementing new road legislation that vehicles won’t be able to include specific headlights on their systems.
You might be thinking this was done because of their level of brightness, but it isn’t. The reason behind the ban has to do with a technical problem the American state believes is a danger for drivers.
Even though you aren’t a Massachusetts citizen, you need to know what’s happening here in case you have to drive through its roads. Let’s see what the problem is behind these headlights and why Massachusetts has decided to ban them.
A risk on the roads
If you haven’t been on the road, you must have experienced being blinded by the headlights from the car coming towards you. It is so bothersome and also dangerous because this can make drivers lose their focus on the road for a second.
So, Massachusetts is taking action on these headlights, but not for this reason.
Massachusetts’s ban on LED headlights
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The American state is banning aftermarket LEDs. These are the ones drivers buy on their own to substitute the original halogen headlights included in the vehicles, which have a more yellowish tone light.
Why do drivers change them to LED headlights? Well, sometimes they change them for a fashion reason since they look more modern than halogen yellow-tone lights. Apart from looking nicer, LED headlights are more durable and brighter than the ones included in vehicles.
These drivers might think they are improving their cars, but they are doing something illegal if they only change the headlights and not the entire system.
What’s the illegal aspect of LEDs?
Compatibility is the key to this issue. According to safety road laws of the United States, the entire headlight system must be tested and approved as a single unit. This is the lens, reflector and light bulb (no matter halogen or LED).
So, drivers can’t only change the light bulb as they wish if their cars’ system was not originally manufactured to use a different light bulb. You may think, ‘well, but if it works, what’s the matter?’ Yes, it can work, but the car’s system is not designed with the same shape as the one of a LED headlight, and there can be some issues with the light reflection and direction.
People don’t totally agree with this regulation
Massachusetts citizens have taken up a position on this new regulation and they don’t think it is created to protect drivers. They argue the law doesn’t have to do with headlights blinding or not lighting up enough, it is more about paperwork proving the system has been approved.
What drivers are allowed to do
If you live in this state or are going to drive on its roads, you should take into account that you could be breaking the law if you change headlight for a LED one without having in mind two things: your car is originally manufactured with LED headlights, or you change them by using a certified full kit.
You should be careful if you are not following these steps because the police are already checking cars in depth.
It is said that manufacturing car companies will develop certified LED upgrade kits, so that you could change your headlights without fearing any legal problem.
Although people believe this law is nonsense, these kits could be a great solution for road safety. Even though we can’t notice it, lenses that are different to the original car system could have some malfunctions.
Carol McDaniel is a dedicated and results-driven professional with 5 years of experience and US News. Known for her strong problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset, Carol has built a reputation for delivering high-impact results across diverse teams and projects.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated expertise in 2 core skills or areas, e.g., client relations and project coordination, and is passionate about continuous learning and meaningful contribution. Carol thrives in dynamic environments and consistently brings professionalism, adaptability, and a focus on growth to every role she takes on.