Headline:
Winter’s Hidden Peril: Snow and Ice Threatening Your Car’s Taillights
Article:
Kong Vinter has long made his presence known in vast parts of the country, leaving a trail of snow and ice in his wake. While many drivers are diligent about clearing snow and ice from their windshields and windows, a potential danger lies forgotten: the taillights.
Incidents of snow and ice totally obscuring taillights on newer vehicles are on the rise. This can be attributed to a combination of owners neglecting to clear away snow or ice before driving, and the increasing use of LED lights on modern cars. LED lights, unlike their traditional incandescent counterparts, do not emit heat, making it more difficult for snow and ice to melt naturally.
"It’s a simple and clear issue," says Brooms’ Bjørn Eirik Loftås. "LED lights don’t generate heat nearby like the old incandescent bulbs did. Right now, we’re seeing many cars on the road with completely covered taillights. They’re practically non-existent. If a car in front of you has to brake suddenly, it’s evident that this could be quite perilous if the brake lights aren’t visible."
His advice is clear: "Before you drive, ensure you’ve removed both snow and ice from around the lights. If it refreezes, pull over safely and remove it."
However, this isn’t just an issue affecting rear lights. Front lights on modern vehicles are also at risk. The solution? Opt for heated headlights.
Egil Verne AS, a specialist in car lighting, has seen a surge in demand, particularly in the professional market. "Professional customers in logistics, transportation, and work vehicles have increasingly chosen this option since it became available a few years ago," says Katrine Køste, the company’s manager. "Now, we’re seeing a trend towards private customers doing the same, especially during periods like these."
She believes this is a positive development, improving visibility and reducing the risk of accidents.
