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Choosing the right lighting for trailers and semi-trailers is not only a legal requirement but, above all, a matter of road safety. Modern LED lights for trailers offer reliability and excellent visibility in all conditions. Find out what types of lighting are worth considering and which lights for trailers or full-sized semi-trailers will best suit your fleet.
Lights in trailers and semi-trailers serve signaling and warning functions. They inform other road users about the vehicle’s position, direction, and driver’s intentions, such as braking or lane changes. Properly selected and installed lighting increases the visibility of the vehicle structure after dark, in fog, rain, or snow, greatly enhancing road safety. Outline lights indicate the actual size of the vehicle, while rear lights warn of its presence and maneuvers. This is particularly important for long or wide transport sets, where lack of side or rear visibility can pose significant dangers – especially on narrow roads, intersections, or during reversing.
In Poland, the obligation to equip trailers and semi-trailers with proper lighting is regulated by the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of December 31, 2002 (Journal of Laws 2003 No. 32, item 262, as amended). According to § 60, every trailer – including light trailers (with GVW up to 750 kg) – must have rear position lights, brake lights, turn indicators, rear triangular reflectors, and license plate lighting that ensures legibility from at least 20 meters. Depending on the trailer’s length and weight, regulations may also require side and front marker lights, fog lights, and reversing lights. The lighting must meet technical and approval requirements specified in the annexes to the regulation and relevant UN ECE regulations. Each component must be mounted securely and be resistant to weather conditions and mechanical damage. Neglecting these aspects can result in fines, vehicle inspection failures, or registration certificate retention – making proper lighting a legal necessity.
LED trailer lights must be installed in specific, legally defined positions:
- rear of the trailer – multifunction LED lights that include brake lights, position lights, indicators, and license plate lighting,
- sides – marker lights that improve vehicle visibility along its length,
- front of the trailer (for larger vehicles) – white position lights or reflectors.
Exact installation locations depend on the trailer’s design and purpose, but all lights must be clearly visible and resistant to external factors.
1. Combination rear lights
The most common type, combining multiple functions in a single housing: position light, brake light, turn signal, fog light, and reverse light. These LED units save space and simplify installation. They come in standard or compact forms and can be adapted to various trailer types.
2. Marker lights
Improve side visibility, especially on long trailers or car haulers. Horpol offers a wide range of LED marker lights in various mounting and color options – single- or double-sided. Their placement depends on the vehicle’s length and structure.
3. Reversing lights
Aid maneuvering and improve safety at night. Often integrated into combination lights, they emit bright white light that illuminates the area behind the vehicle, making it easier to see in mirrors or camera systems.
4. Fog lights
Essential in conditions of reduced visibility like fog, rain, or snow. Required in many commercial and specialty vehicles, they emit high-intensity red light that’s clearly visible and doesn’t blend with other lights.
5. License plate lighting
LED license plate lights are durable, sealed, and road-resistant. They provide even illumination across the plate surface without blinding other road users.
LED lights are the top choice in modern transportation. Unlike traditional bulbs, LEDs convert energy with minimal loss, making them highly efficient. Their compact design and durability make them ideal for vehicles exposed to vibrations, moisture, and harsh weather. LED trailer lights are also aesthetically pleasing, giving vehicles a modern look. They’re now available in slimline versions and with extra features. Key advantages include:
- low energy consumption,
- high resistance to vibrations and shocks,
- long service life,
- bright, clearly visible light,
- no need for frequent replacement.
For fleet managers, switching from conventional to LED lights significantly reduces maintenance costs and downtime. LEDs are mechanically durable and consume minimal power – offering real savings at scale.
- Approvals – only certified lights meet legal standards (national and EU). Certification (e.g., “E” mark with country number) confirms the product has passed lighting and technical tests. Using uncertified lights can lead to fines and failed inspections.
- Ingress protection (IP Rating) – indicates resistance to dust and water. For trailers used in rain, mud, or snow, choose at least IP 65-rated lights, preferably IP 67 or IP 68 for full protection even when briefly submerged.
- Operating temperature – lights should function reliably from -30°C to +50°C, especially in changing climates like Poland’s.
- Connection type – affects ease of installation, maintenance, and replacement. Bayonet or Superseal plugs ensure secure, watertight connections and prevent wiring issues.
- Housing material – affects durability and resistance to damage, UV radiation, and chemicals. Opt for polycarbonate (PC) or reinforced ABS housings – they’re lightweight, tough, and long-lasting.
- Shock and vibration resistance – crucial for vehicles in rough terrain (construction, agriculture, forestry). LED trailer lights should resist microvibrations and shocks to protect electronics.
- Design and optical visibility – important both aesthetically and functionally. Modern designs enhance fleet professionalism, and well-arranged diodes improve light signal clarity. Bright white light (typically 5500–6500 K) increases safety, especially at night.
Why choose Horpol?
Horpol has long delivered professional lighting solutions for commercial, specialty, and heavy-duty vehicles. Our product range includes:
- modern LED lights for trailers and car haulers,
- compact, efficient LED lights for small trailers,
- energy-saving LED marker and combination lights,
- products compliant with ECE and EU regulations.
Horpol trailer lights are designed for tough conditions – tested in real-world use and engineered with precision. A wide selection ensures compatibility with various vehicle types and user needs.
Choosing the right lights for trailers and semi-trailers shouldn’t be left to chance. LED lights – especially combination or marker models – significantly improve vehicle visibility and everyday usability. If you value durability, aesthetics, and legal compliance, go for reliable LED lights from Horpol.
