It almost doesn't matter if it's dark or if the sun is low in the sky. Too many drivers forget the light in the rear lights, says Frands Egertsen.
The problem is quite as big as we move towards the darker times, or on days when the sun is low in the sky. But also when it is grey, foggy, with snow or otherwise invisible weather.
The cars disappear into the shadows, especially those in black, gray or dark colours. But people are still roaming around without the lights on.
The problem is also there when you stop at red lights without having your foot on the brake. Then there is no rear light/brake light. Maybe the brake light is even faulty. Then we really have a problem.
I cannot urge enough that these offenses are dealt with very strongly. Because I often see cars driving without lights in the taillights, those that don't blink when changing lanes or can't figure out how to blink in good time when turning.
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If you're lucky, it flashes the second the driver turns the wheel himself. Otherwise, it won't happen at all. It's head-shaking.
It's the same with trailers. You can't see them either if the lights on the car are not switched on. The trailer is therefore invisible.
I have several times experienced how things have gone really wrong. Even with pedestrians crossing a crosswalk. They – i.e. the pedestrians – are about to be mowed down, because you discover too late that a car without lights on is stationary.
Then you have to pull around to avoid the car and perhaps discover the lady in the pedestrian crossing too late. Whoa, whoa.
Why should the EU decide this kind of thing, and thus invalidate an otherwise excellent law in Denmark? Because the drivers could well find out how to drive with the lights on, also in the rear lights.
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I have had contact with several different transport ministers, politicians, car importers, the Council for Safe Traffic etc. to propose changes and campaigns.
The type approvals on these cars must be revoked and only returned at a periodic inspection when the lights are back on. Even the police have forgotten all about it. Unfortunately, I get the same bad answer every time: "These are the rules".
Yes, but then the rules must be changed! And it can only go too slowly! I even sing with a sign in the rear window that says: "Now look to get that light on for your sake and mine, please!"
I hope this gives food for thought. And that all car importers, the media and the police will support the proposal. And especially the choir teachers who have to teach people in this country to choir a car.
Frands Egertsen
