What is it about people wanting to put lights on their vehicles at Christmas? Every year, some good ol’ boy decides his truck needs to look like a Christmas tree and asks me if it’s legal.

The answer is the same … every year …. No.

The reason is safety.

Now, Alabama doesn’t specifically prohibit Christmas lights on moving vehicles. So, if you are determined to give it a try, here are some rules that might keep you from having to explain your life choices to a state trooper.

NO RED LIGHTS

We do have a state law prohibiting a red light on the front of any car or truck. Why, you ask? The state does not want anyone thinking you are an emergency vehicle. Last year, one clever reader wanted to know if it was ok if the red light was inside the cab. No, it is not ok.

NO FLASHING/TWINKLING LIGHTS

Flashing lights are for indicating turns and, on rare occasions, full stops.  Try circumventing this law, and you are almost guaranteed to be pulled over.

DON’T MOVE IT

Can you trick up your vehicle in your driveway? Well, in fact, you can. All these laws are about prohibiting lights on moving vehicles. Don’t move it, and you can pretty much do what you want.

WANT SHINEY THINGS?

Where to see lights? Well, the best in the state are right here. Travel + Leisure has named Bellingrath Gardens as Alabama’s best light show. I can say it is spectacular, with more than 1,100 set pieces and 3 million lights. I suggest you spend your time and money taking the family there rather than trying to get an entire strobing nativity scene on your vehicle’s roof.

Be safe this holiday. We want to see you around next year.

If you suffer a personal injury like an auto/truck accident, railroad accident, or slip and fall , you can talk to us at the Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie for free. We want to help you get back on your feet.

Join us on NBC 15 LawCall here in Mobile every Sunday night at 10:30, right after the news. We are taking a fall break and will offer 5-minute segments for the rest of the year. Plus, there is a live call-in segment every Monday on NBC 15 at around lunchtime.

Allen Ritchie

Alabama Personal Injury Lawyer

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