Underglow lights are an aftermarket lighting system that is affixed to the undercarriage of your vehicle. They create a floating halo effect, which enhances the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle.
Underglow lights typically come with neon tubes or LED strips. It’s a common add-on for both car and motorcycle owners alike.
All states across the United States have specific laws regarding the use of underglow and automotive lighting accessories in general. These laws are enforced for safety reasons.
Along with restricting or prohibiting the type of light, the laws also impose restrictions on the luminosity and color of lights that can be installed on a vehicle. With all that in mind, is underglow legal in Michigan? Find out by reading this article.
Michigan Laws for Underglow Lights
According to the state’s vehicle code, additional aftermarket vehicle lighting modifications are not permitted for use on public roads. We can conclude that neon underglow lights are illegal in the state of Michigan.
You may install underglow lights as long as you keep them turned off and covered when driving on a public road. However, you may use them at a private event or a closed course.
You will find the rules and regulations for the usage of aftermarket lights in the Michigan Vehicle Code, Section 257.698.
There is no direct reference to neon underbody lighting in the code. However, the code prohibits the installation of any light that is not permitted or expressly required. Neon underglow lights are not included in the list of permitted or expressly required lighting.
If you wish to use the lights on private property, you can light them up. However, as long as you are driving on public roads, these lights must not be visible on the exterior and must remain unlit.
Besides underglow lights, tire valve stem lights, interior aftermarket lights, windshield wiper lights, and overhead or roll bar lights are also prohibited.
Are Underglow Neon Lights Legal in Michigan?
Section 257.698 of the Michigan Vehicle Code does not expressly mention neon underglow lighting.
However, the law states while driving a motor vehicle on a public road, the only permitted light colors are white or amber on the front and red on the rear of the vehicle.
Moreover, these lights must be part of the required lighting for a vehicle or permitted by the state’s code. From this, we can conclude that neon underglow lights, unless unlit and covered, are not allowed while driving on public roads.
Additionally, the code forbids the use of oscillating or flashing lights of any color. These types of lights are used in emergency or authorized vehicles. Their use by other motor vehicles is a safety hazard, as they can be distracting to other vehicles on the road.
Before you make any lighting modifications to your vehicle, be sure to reach out to your local authorities and confirm its legality.
Fines and Penalties for Driving With Underglow
If your vehicle violates the state’s lighting laws, you will have to deal with legal consequences.
It is a civil infraction to operate a vehicle outside the bounds of the state’s vehicle codes.
State of Michigan Info
A beautiful state nestled in the Great Lakes region in the midwestern part of the U.S. Michigan consists of two peninsulas — the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula, which are interconnected by the Mackinac Bridge.
The state is home to over 12,000 lakes and beaches and it has many secluded and scenic islands.
With its diverse landscapes, beautiful waterways, limitless forests, wilderness, and stunning shorelines, Michigan is a popular tourist destination.
Population: 10 million
Capital: Lansing
Registered vehicles: 9,286,067
Total lane miles: 256,579
Number of highways: 13
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