Aftermarket devices can help protect vulnerable road users, but vehicles must stay compliant to avoid enforcement.
VRU signs
VRU signs are third-party devices fitted to reduce incidents involving cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians. They usually provide visual or audible warnings and are fitted to the rear or side of a vehicle or trailer. VRU signs linked to indicators are directional indicators and must meet lighting rules. Many fail because they:
- emit the wrong colour instead of amber
- flash outside the permitted rate of 60 to 120 times per minute
Operators, manufacturers and installers should follow current DVSA guidance.
Key requirements for compliance include:
- fit devices to the sides and rear of vehicles only
- not position them on side guard rails or rear underrun devices
- not increase the maximum permissible width of the vehicle
- avoid dangerous protrusions
- use non-reflective materials
You can use the devices:
- with indicators if amber and flashing in unison; rear-facing lights must be red
- as independent systems, if they do not flash with indicators and emit a continuous light
Devices must be fitted correctly and meet legal requirements. DVSA may issue advisory notices for technical non-compliance, but dangerous fittings can fail tests or trigger roadside enforcement.
A flashing red VRU sign may get an advisory notice; a protruding, unsafe sideguard device would fail.
Decorative LED light displays
Digital LED displays, messages, emojis or visible cab lighting can distract other road users. Key points to stay compliant:
- any light that shows moving images is almost certainly illegal
- any red light facing forwards is also likely to be an offence
Action can be taken even if lights are off, so avoid fitting decorative LED lights.
Blue warning beacons
DVSA is seeing more HGVs fitted with blue warning beacons, which police may act on.
Blue warning beacons are illegal except on emergency vehicles.
Blue lights signal emergency vehicles; misuse can lead to fines, licence points or prosecution.
Do not fit blue lights to non-emergency vehicles; remove any before road use.
Further information: