Bright and distracting billboards have long been a point of contention for drivers, especially as we head into winter when the shorter days make these illuminated signs even more of a nuisance. While many may find them obnoxious, it’s important to understand the laws surrounding these eye-catching advertisements.
Understanding the Law Behind Billboard Regulations
Many drivers may be surprised to learn that the bright digital billboards that light up the roadside are actually illegal under certain circumstances. The legality of LED billboards, for example, is governed by a statute that prohibits signs that are “of such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or impair the vision of the driver of any motor vehicle, or otherwise interfere with any driver’s operation of a motor vehicle.” This law, however, only scratches the surface of the complex world of roadside signage regulations.
The Complexities of Roadside Signage Laws
The law cited above, 23 CFR § 750.154, specifically pertains to directional signs, which are informational signs along the highway that guide drivers to public places and other points of interest. Interestingly, this law does not address advertising, which is governed by separate subsections of 23 CFR § 750 based on various factors.
Advertising signs are divided into four classes: Class 1 for official government signs, Class 2 for signs on the physical buildings they advertise, Class 3 for signs within 12 miles of the advertised location, and Class 4 for signs in the interest of the traveling public. While these distinctions may seem convoluted, they all come down to one key factor: the intensity of the lighting.
Lighting Regulations for Billboards
Regardless of the class of the sign, there are strict regulations in place regarding the intensity of the lighting used. The General Provisions subsection of 23 CFR § 750 establishes limits on lighting for Class 2, 3, and 4 signs, prohibiting any lighting that could cause glare, impair vision, or interfere with a driver’s operation of a vehicle. This means that even the most eye-catching and bright billboards are illegal if they pose a risk to drivers.
It’s important to note that these regulations apply not only to signs within a certain distance of the highway but also to those located further away. This ensures that all advertising signs, regardless of their proximity to the road, adhere to the same standards when it comes to lighting.
In conclusion, while bright and distracting billboards may be a common sight on our roads, it’s essential to understand the laws that govern them. By enforcing strict regulations on the intensity of lighting used in advertising signs, authorities aim to ensure the safety and well-being of drivers on our highways. So the next time you find yourself blinded by a glaring billboard, remember that there are laws in place to protect you from these visual distractions.
