Neon underglow lights sure do make your car look cooler, but the novelty will quickly wear off if you get a ticket for having them installed on your car.
It is always good to know the laws governing your state to ensure you don’t get pulled over or fined for breaking the rules. Most states permit underglow lights but prohibit the use of specific colors.
An example would be the use of blue or red lights. These are associated with legal authorities, such as the police or an ambulance. It is also prohibited to use flashing lights or rotating ones as they might distract drivers.
So, is underglow legal in Maine? Keep reading to find out and know what signs you should watch out for to stick to the rules.
Maine Laws for Underglow Lights
It is illegal to use neon underglow lights in Maine while driving. The laws are governed by the state’s Code and fall under the Maine Revised Statutes.
Under this, Title 29: Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Chapter 17: Equipment, and Subchapter 1: General Provisions are dedicated to this subject.
The only time vehicles may use underglow lighting is when they are on a closed course or at a car show. The lights cannot be used while driving in public or even when stationary in a parking lot.
Even if you do install underglow lights, they must be concealed beneath the chassis and the fluorescent tubes must not be visible from the outside.
- Light type: It is prohibited to use both neon lights and LED underglow lights for your vehicle. It is legal only if your car is going to be used for events or any aesthetic purposes.
- Size: These lights are prohibited irrespective of size and placement. Auxiliary lights can only emit a steady beam of light that doesn’t scatter, flash, glare, or rotate.
- Permitted colors: White and amber are permitted at the front of the vehicle, while only amber is permitted on the sides. On the rear end, it is legal to use red or amber, provided the car is not being driven in public.
- Intensity: The light can only have brightness equivalent to that of standard lighting equipment. This is due to the lights being distracting to other drivers.
Are Underglow Neon Lights Legal in Maine?
No, underglow lights of any color or type are illegal in Maine. They are permitted only if the vehicle is being used for shows and not for public driving. If you happen to use such lights for any event, avoid any official colors such as green or blue.
Did you know that excessive sound systems and heavily tinted windows are also restricted in Maine? It is also mandatory to have a license plate in the front and rear of the vehicle with an exception only for motorcycles and tractors.
It is illegal to use even colored headlights such as pink, yellow, or blue. It must be evident by now that the road rules in Maine are stringent and any violation of them may land you with a penalty.
Read on to learn about the penalties for driving with a neon underglow and what could be the worst case for people who break the law.
Fines and Penalties for Driving With Underglow
The fines to be paid for breaking the rules fall under the title 1909-B, Optional Auxiliary Lighting.
This states the violation caused by using underglow lights and how a traffic infraction is caused by illuminated vehicles. Drivers may be held on notice with their licenses suspended for a minimum of 30 days.
If the court fails to suspend the driver’s license, the Secretary of State has the right to impose the suspension period. It may even lead to a fine of $575 at least. Be sure to check with your local authorities if you wish to get neon underglow lights.
State of Maine Info
Maine is a northeastern state of the United States.
Situated in the New England region of the country, the state has 16 counties with an abundance of forest areas and water bodies.
Its rocky coastline stretches for 3,500 miles. It attained statehood in 1820, becoming the 23rd state in the country.
In terms of area, it is the 12th smallest, and in terms of population, it is the 13th least populous state. It is also the only state to share borders with a single US state.
Population: 1,329,192
Capital: Augusta
Registered vehicles: 383,228
Total lane miles: 46,750
Number of Highways: 2