Trucks Get Green Light for Flashing Amber Brake Lights
Published Date: 6/3/2026
Notice
Summary
Truck-Lite Co. LLC got the green light to let trucks use special flashing amber brake lights along with the regular steady ones for the next five years. This change aims to keep trucks just as safe, if not safer, on the road. Truck drivers and companies can start using these new lights from May 29, 2026, through June 3, 2031, with no extra costs announced.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Five-Year Allowance for Pulsating Amber Brake Lamps
FMCSA granted Truck-Lite a 5-year exemption allowing motor carriers to install Truck-Lite or ECCO auxiliary amber brake-activated pulsating lamps on the rear of commercial motor vehicles from May 29, 2026 through June 3, 2031. The lamps may pulsate (Class II strobe) for up to four seconds when the brake is applied, then must transition to steady red for the duration of the brake circuit, and must be used in addition to the steady-burning red brake lamps required by the FMCSRs.
Federal Exemption Preempts Conflicting State Rules
While this exemption is in effect (May 29, 2026 through June 3, 2031), no State may enforce any law or regulation applicable to interstate commerce that conflicts with the exemption for firms or persons operating under it. States may choose to adopt the same exemption for intrastate operations, but are not required to do so.
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