When to turn on the side lights in a car according to traffic rules: a complete analysis of the rules

Parking lights are one of the most underrated yet critically important elements of a car. Many drivers turn them on “on autopilot”, without thinking about when it is really necessary and when it is unnecessary or even dangerous. Meanwhile, incorrect use of dimensions can lead not only to a fine, but also to an accident. For example, in 2023, the traffic police recorded more 120 thousand violationsrelated to non-compliance with the rules for the use of lighting devices - and a third of them related specifically to side lights.

In this article we will look at all cases where the inclusion of dimensions is mandatory according to the 2026 traffic regulations, as well as those situations where their use is prohibited or meaningless. You will learn the difference between headlights and low beams, why they cannot be turned on instead of daytime running lights (DRLs), and how to avoid a fine 2,000 rubles for violation. We will pay special attention to controversial issues - for example, whether it is necessary to turn on the traffic lights when stopping on the side of the road during the day or in a tunnel.

The material has been prepared taking into account the latest changes in traffic regulations (as of June 2026) and clarifications of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation on controversial situations. If you want not just to “learn the rules”, but to understand the logic of their application, read on.

What are side lights and why are they needed?

Side lights (or dimensions) is The dimmest car exterior lights, located at the corners of the body: two in front (white) and two in back (red). Their main task is indicate the dimensions of the machine in the dark or in poor visibility, so that other road users can assess its size and position on the road.

Unlike low/high beam headlights or fog lights, the dimensions don't light the road, but only signal the presence of a car. Their luminous flux is only 4–10 lumens (for comparison: low beam - 500–1000 lumens). This makes them inconspicuous during the day, but clearly visible at night at a distance of up to 300 meters.

It is important to understand that dimensions are not an alternative to daytime running lights (DRLs). The latter are brighter (from 400 lumens) and are designed to improve the visibility of the machine during the day. It is prohibited to use side lights instead of DRLs (Section 19.5), since their dim light does not provide sufficient visibility in sunlight.

• 🔹 Color and location: front - white, rear - red; symmetrically at the corners of the body.
• 🔹 Power: 50–100 times weaker than low beam headlights.
• 🔹 Purpose: designation of vehicle dimensions, not road lighting.
• 🔹 Ban: Cannot be used instead of DRLs or headlights while driving during the day.

When inclusion of dimensions is mandatory according to traffic rules 2026

The traffic rules clearly regulate the cases when the side lights must be turned on. The main normative act is clause 19.3 of the Russian Traffic Regulations, but there are other nuances explained in the decisions of the Plenum of the Supreme Court. Let's consider all mandatory situations:

1. In the parking lot at night

If you leave your car in an unlit parking lot or on the side of the road at night (from 23:00 to 07:00 in populated areas or when visibility is insufficient), turning on the dimensions is mandatory. This rule applies even if the car is parked on equipped parking, but without artificial lighting.

Exception: if the parking lot is lit so that the car is visible from a distance 100 meters, dimensions may not be included. However, in practice it is difficult to estimate this distance, so it is better to be safe.

2. When stopping and parking in poor visibility conditions

Under insufficient visibility The traffic rules understand situations when the road visibility is less 300 meters due to fog, rain, snow or dust. In such cases, the dimensions must be included regardless of the time of day - even during the day. This rule is often violated by drivers, leaving the car on the side of the road in thick fog without lights.

Example: if you are stopped on the highway due to heavy rain and visibility is less 200 meters, inclusion of dimensions is mandatory. The same goes for dust storms or smog.

3. On trailers and towed vehicles

Side lights must always be turned onwhen the trailer or towed vehicle is on the road - regardless of the time of day and lighting. This rule is enshrined in clause 19.1 of traffic rules and is due to the fact that trailers are often less visible on the road.

Exception: if the trailer is equipped own daytime running lights (DRL), they can be used instead of dimensions during daylight hours. However, such trailers are extremely rare.

Situation	Are dimensions required?	Penalty for violation
Parking at night in an unlit parking lot	Yes	500 ₽ (Part 1 of Article 12.20 of the Administrative Code)
Stopping during the day in fog (visibility < 300 m)	Yes	500 ₽
Traffic in the tunnel	No (needs low beam)	500 ₽ for low beam
Trailer on the road during the day	Yes	500 ₽
Parking in a lighted parking lot at night	No	—

When dimensions are prohibited from being included

Many drivers mistakenly believe that side lights can be used instead of low beam or daytime running lights. This is a gross violation of traffic rules, for which a fine is provided. Let's look at cases when turning on the dimensions prohibited:

• 🚗 Instead of DRLs or headlights during the day: the dimensions are too dim for daytime (clause 19.5 of the traffic rules).
• 🌃 Instead of low beam at night: when driving in the dark, the headlights must be turned on (clause 19.1).
• 🚇 In the tunnels: low beam or DRL required (section 19.1).
• 🚨 When towing: The towing vehicle's headlights must be on, not the lights.

It is especially dangerous to use headlights instead of low beams in dusk or cloudy weather. In such conditions, the dim light of the dimensions makes the car practically invisible to oncoming drivers, which often leads to head-on collisions.

⚠️ Attention! If you drive with your headlights on instead of low beams at night, the traffic police inspector has the right to fine you 500 rubles (Part 1 of Article 12.20 of the Administrative Code) and demand that the violation be eliminated on the spot. In case of refusal, the car is towed to the impound lot.

Dimensions vs low beam vs DRL: when to turn on what

Frequent confusion among drivers arises from a lack of understanding of when to use dimensions, and when - low beam or daytime running lights (DRL). Let's look at the key differences:

Situation	Dimensions	DRL	Low beam
Traffic during the day	❌ Prohibited	✅ Required	✅ Allowed
Traffic at night	❌ Prohibited	❌ Prohibited	✅ Required
Parking at night in an unlit area	✅ Required	❌ Not enough	❌ Not required
Stopping in fog (visibility < 300 m)	✅ Required	❌ Not enough	✅Additional

DRL are intended for daytime use only and automatically turn off when the headlights are turned on. Their brightness400–800 lumens) is sufficient for the visibility of the car during the day, but insufficient for night time.

Low beam - a universal option that can be used both day and night. However, it consumes more energy and shortens lamp life. In modern cars (for example, Volkswagen Golf, Toyota Camry) DRLs turn on automatically when the engine starts, which eliminates the need for the driver to think about choosing lighting devices.

Fines for incorrect use of dimensions

Violations of the rules for using side lights are classified according to Article 12.20 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation. The amount of the fine depends on the specific situation:

• 💰 500 rubles — for dimensions not included in mandatory cases (night parking, poor visibility).
• 💰 500 rubles — for using headlights instead of low beams or DRLs.
• 💰 1,000 rubles - if an accident occurs due to improper use of dimensions (by court decision).
• 🚔 Warning - for the first violation, the inspector may limit himself to an oral remark.

Important: if you do not include the dimensions on the trailer, a fine will be issued to the driver tractor, and not on the owner of the trailer. This is stated in clause 1.2 of traffic rules, where the trailer is considered as part of the vehicle.

⚠️ Attention! If a traffic police inspector stops you for improper use of clearances, he is required to provide evidence of the violation (photo/video). Without them, the fine can be challenged in court. In 2023 30% of such fines were canceled due to lack of evidence.

Frequent driver mistakes: myths and reality

Even experienced drivers sometimes make mistakes when using side lights. Let's look at the most common myths:

Myth 1: “Dimensions can be turned on instead of DRLs during the day”

This is a gross violation. DRL in 50–100 times brighter dimensions and are designed specifically for daytime use. The inclusion of headlights instead of DRLs is equivalent to lack of lighting devices and is punishable by a fine.

Myth 2: “In a lighted parking lot, clearances are not needed”

This is only true if the parking lot is lit. enough to see the car from 100 meters. In practice, even bright lights do not always provide such visibility, so it is better to turn on the dimensions.

Myth 3: “In fog, it’s enough to turn on the fog lights”

Fog lights (PTF) improve road illumination, but do not replace dimensions when stopping. If you are stopped in fog, must be turned on and dimensions and PTF (if they exist).

What to do if the dimensions don't work?

If the side lights stop working, check:

1. Fuse (usually F10 or F15 in the block).

2. Incandescent lamps (often burn out at the same time).

3. Light control relay (located under the instrument panel).

4. Wiring for oxidation (especially in the headlight mounting areas).

If the problem is electrical, it is better to contact an auto electrician - the fault may be related to the body control unit (BCM).

Practical advice: how not to forget about dimensions

To avoid fines and accidents, follow these recommendations:

1. Set it to turn on automatically: in most modern cars (for example, Hyundai Solaris, Kia Rio) the dimensions are turned on automatically when the key is turned to the position ACC or when opening the door in the dark.
2. Use reminders: Put a sticker on the dashboard that says “Check your dimensions!” or set a reminder in your phone for the evening.
3. Check the lamps: marker lamps burn out more often than others due to low voltage. Check them once every 3 months.
4. Keep an eye on your battery: if the dimensions dim while the engine is running, this is a sign dead battery or a faulty generator.

Turn the ignition to position ACC|Check the front lights (white light)|Check the rear lights (red light)|Make sure the lights are on evenly without flickering-->

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about side lights

Do I need to turn on my headlights during the day when stopping on the side of the road?

No, during the day the lights turn on when stopping not necessaryif visibility is good. However, if you are stopped in a place with limited visibility (for example, around a bend), it is better to turn on alarm.

Can markers be used instead of brake lights?

No, this is prohibited. There should be brake lights red and brighter in size (power from 60 lumens). If the brake lights do not work, it is prohibited to operate the machine (clause 3.6 of the List of faults).

What is the penalty for non-functioning dimensions?

If the dimensions do not work, the inspector may write warning or fine 500 rubles (Part 1 of Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code). If the dimensions are faulty and stop lights, the fine increases to 1,000 rubles.

Do I need to include clearances in the tunnel?

No, the tunnel must be turned on low beam headlights or DRLs (clause 19.1 of the traffic rules). The dimensions in this case are not bright enough.

Is it possible to drive with the headlights on instead of the headlights at night?

Absolutely not. This is a gross violation (clause 19.1 of the traffic rules), for which a fine is provided 500 rubles. Must be turned on at night low or high beam headlights.