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Unlike other countries, the United States and Canada do not mandate the use of amber turn signals on vehicles. This has resulted in a lack of uniformity among various car models in the market, leading to inconsistency within even single automotive brands. A Medium post by Jack Tigras has compiled an extensive list of turn signal colors for current mass-market vehicles.
The dataset crafted by Tigras includes 249 models from the year 2023, while luxury manufacturers like McLaren and Ferrari have been excluded. The list reveals that the number of automakers using exclusively amber rear signals is equal to those that never use them. However, the majority toggle between red and amber lights depending on the car model and trim. For instance, Volkswagen replaced the amber turn signals with red ones in the Jetta’s most recent facelift, while higher-end Ford F-150 models display amber turn signals as a mark of premium status compared to the base models which feature red flashing lights.
Table of automakers that use red and amber turn signals in U.S. models. Jack Tigras
Out of the 249 vehicle models, approximately 48 percent, or 121 models, displayed variability in rear signal colors. This issue transcends mere design choices, as statistics from the NHTSA show amber turn signals to be associated with a more than five percent decrease in accidents under certain circumstances. These situations often include instances when not all taillights are visible, such as during merges, turns, or when exiting parking spots. The use of amber signals can also provide clearer communication of a driver’s intention when a brake light is not working, hazard lights are being used, or when brakes are being tapped repeatedly. Conversely, red turn signals can produce uncertainty, increasing the risk of accidents.
The question then arises: why would manufacturers favor red signals? Cost-saving measures could be a factor, as having fewer light colors might reduce expenses. Nonetheless, some models equipped with red turn signals in the U.S. utilize amber signals in other countries, indicating that cost may not be the primary concern. Rather, car brands might simply prefer red signals for aesthetic consistency, irrespective of their effectiveness. Unless legislative changes occur, the mixed usage of red and amber turn signals will likely persist.
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FAQs About Rear Turn Signal Colors
- Why are amber turn signals beneficial? Amber turn signals are linked to reduced accident rates. They provide clearer indication of a driver’s intentions, particularly in scenarios where visibility is limited or other lights are in use.
- Why do some manufacturers use red turn signals instead of amber? Some reasons may include cost-saving efforts or design preference for consistency. However, in terms of safety, amber signals are more effective.
- Are amber turn signals required by law in the United States? No, there is currently no federal mandate requiring the use of amber rear turn signals in the United States or Canada.
Conclusion
The use of amber rear turn signals in new vehicles is far from universal, despite evidence suggesting their superiority in terms of safety. With roughly half of new cars featuring such signals, consumers face a mix of both amber and red options. Safety considerations may favor amber, yet aesthetic and cost factors can influence manufacturers’ choices. Until legislative action is taken, the variety in turn signal colors is likely to continue, influencing the safety and design of vehicles on North American roads.
