New Ohio law requires drivers to turn on lights whenever they use windshield wipers
Diesel Enthusiast
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 433
Likes: 18
From: Shippensburg, PA
yea like ram said we had that for years but dont think they enforce it much 
could be worse http://www.dumblaws.com/laws/united-states/ohio
could be worse http://www.dumblaws.com/laws/united-states/ohio
Last edited by outlaw1_gt; Jul 3, 2009 at 08:50 AM.
Bombardier
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 288
Likes: 18
From: Toledo, OH
If you flick your windshield wipers on, be sure you have some type of lights illuminating the front of your vehicle, too.
It's now the law.
A new Ohio law requires motorists to turn on their headlights whenever the weather is bad enough to use their windshield wipers.
Daytime lights that automatically turn on when the vehicle is running will fulfill that requirement. And warnings will be given for violators over the next six months before citations are written.
Lt. Shawn Davis, spokesman for the Ohio State Highway Patrol, said the law previously said headlights should be activated during "unfavorable atmospheric conditions." That can be a bit judgmental -- by the motorist and officer.
"This provision now makes it clearer when to have your lights on -- when windshield wipers are activated," Davis said. "The goal of the original bill was to increase overall traffic safety. Headlights draw more attention to cars, whether at an intersection or on oncoming cars. Any time you draw additional attention to a vehicle in inclement weather, whether rain or snow, it increases safety for everyone."
The offense is a secondary violation -- similar to the seatbelt law. Officers may only cite a motorist for not having lights on with wipers when stopped for another violation, such as speeding, weaving in a lane or driving through a traffic light.
It is a minor misdemeanor, with violators paying up to a $150 fine. Motorists will not receive points on their licenses if cited.
North Royalton Patrolman Mark Fyock was mildly surprised the law has already taken effect. He said Ohio has been "lacking" in this requirement since many southern states that experience torrential storms have had it in place for several years.
"I can see the benefit. It helps other drivers see and spot your vehicle in such bad weather," he said.
Fyock said the department's command staff will likely decide on a route to best handle the new requirement and educate motorists. He said the new law likely will be highlighted on the city's Web site so residents will become familiar with it prior to officers citing motorists after the six-month warning time frame.
It's now the law.
A new Ohio law requires motorists to turn on their headlights whenever the weather is bad enough to use their windshield wipers.
Daytime lights that automatically turn on when the vehicle is running will fulfill that requirement. And warnings will be given for violators over the next six months before citations are written.
Lt. Shawn Davis, spokesman for the Ohio State Highway Patrol, said the law previously said headlights should be activated during "unfavorable atmospheric conditions." That can be a bit judgmental -- by the motorist and officer.
"This provision now makes it clearer when to have your lights on -- when windshield wipers are activated," Davis said. "The goal of the original bill was to increase overall traffic safety. Headlights draw more attention to cars, whether at an intersection or on oncoming cars. Any time you draw additional attention to a vehicle in inclement weather, whether rain or snow, it increases safety for everyone."
The offense is a secondary violation -- similar to the seatbelt law. Officers may only cite a motorist for not having lights on with wipers when stopped for another violation, such as speeding, weaving in a lane or driving through a traffic light.
It is a minor misdemeanor, with violators paying up to a $150 fine. Motorists will not receive points on their licenses if cited.
North Royalton Patrolman Mark Fyock was mildly surprised the law has already taken effect. He said Ohio has been "lacking" in this requirement since many southern states that experience torrential storms have had it in place for several years.
"I can see the benefit. It helps other drivers see and spot your vehicle in such bad weather," he said.
Fyock said the department's command staff will likely decide on a route to best handle the new requirement and educate motorists. He said the new law likely will be highlighted on the city's Web site so residents will become familiar with it prior to officers citing motorists after the six-month warning time frame.
Diesel Bomber
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,352
Likes: 50
From: Bedford OH
i"ll keep my running lights on, makes me visible without causing all that annoying glare.
Also use rain-X and rarely use the wipers.. maybe i'll just run a relay so when i pulse the wipers it flashes my lights
Also use rain-X and rarely use the wipers.. maybe i'll just run a relay so when i pulse the wipers it flashes my lights
"Ohio Bombers" Director
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 812
Likes: 37
From: Painesville, Ohio
I don't really understand why there is such discussion on how to get around the law?? Its there for safety of other drives, road/safety workers and pedestrians!
Is it that hard to turn them on when its raining?
Is it that hard to turn them on when its raining?
"Ohio Bombers" Director
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 812
Likes: 37
From: Painesville, Ohio
AMEN!
