Safe Speed Forums

Roy Milnes has drawn our attention to the Drivers Against Daytime Running Lights campaign, of which he is the UK Co-ordinator. Among other things, the campaign is based on the assertions that the lights are distracting to other road users; that they contravene rule 94 of the Highway Code; that they fail too soon because of extended use; and that they create pollution because of the extra engine power needed to run them.

All this, of course, is aimed squarely at Volvo, whose cars run on dipped headlights even when the light switch is set to the "off" position, though it's also possible to run on sidelights only. The company is based in Sweden, where daytime running lights have been mandatory since 1977.

Volvo defends its policy of keeping the system in its cars even when they are sold in countries - like the UK - where it is not a legal requirement. "Volvo stands by its experience with Day Running lights as a contributor to improving road safety for vulnerable road users (particularly the elderly, children) around dawn and dusk when it is essential for vehicles to be seen," a spokesman told us.

"Mr Milne's campaign is a long-running one but, given the increased number of countries making Day Running Lights mandatory, the experts seem to support our views and those of the Swedish authorities rather than Mr Milne's."

Judge for yourself by visiting www.dadrl.org.uk.

Volvo defends its policy of keeping the system in its cars even when they are sold in countries - like the UK - where it is not a legal requirement. "Volvo stands by its experience with Day Running lights as a contributor to improving road safety for vulnerable road users (particularly the elderly, children) around dawn and dusk when it is essential for vehicles to be seen," a spokesman told us.

If people where educated, as to when to use head lights there would be no problems.

So all the bikers that have benefitted from the extra visibility of having their lights on will now disappear into a confusion of glare to any approaching or right turning traffic.

Certain to increase the fun on rainy days.

If people where educated, as to when to use head lights there would be no problems.

When I got my Volvo S60, one of the first things I did was to get my dealer to turn the day running lights OFF.

I'm the pilot in command and I will decide when the lights ought to be on, thank you very much!

I concurr - bike lights on ALL THE TIME - car lights on when needed , is my view.

I agree.

Then we can easily see who are the riders who can't ride properly - as they will have their lights on in daylight.

I agree.

Then we can easily see who are the riders who can't ride properly - as they will have their lights on in daylight.

Sadly few riders now have the choice.