19.33. Is it permitted to switch on the rear fog lamp at night in the absence of conditions of insufficient visibility?
UAЧи дозволено вночі вмикати задній протитуманний ліхтар при відсутності умов недостатньої видимості?
This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine concerns road safety during nighttime and the proper use of external lighting devices. The rear fog light emits a bright red light and is not intended for illuminating the road, but rather to make the vehicle more visible to drivers behind during significant reductions in visibility. Unjustified use of such a light can dazzle or disorient other road users and create a false impression of distance.
The question tests knowledge of the section of the traffic rules regarding the use of external lighting devices, specifically the requirements of clause 19.9. The key idea for the theoretical exam: the decisive factor is not the mere fact that it is night, but the presence of conditions of insufficient visibility (definition given in clause 1.10), when road visibility becomes reduced, for example due to fog, heavy rain, or snowfall. In the absence of such conditions, the rear fog light must not be used, even if it is dark outside.
The analysis of the answer options comes down to a simple rule: the statement about prohibition is correct, because the Traffic Rules of Ukraine allow the rear fog light to be turned on only in conditions of insufficient visibility. In contrast, the option about allowing it at night without reduced visibility contradicts the requirements of clause 19.9 and may lead to dazzling drivers behind, especially on well-lit streets or on the highway in clear weather. In practice, this means that on an ordinary clear night, standard low beam headlights and position lights are sufficient, and the fog light should be reserved for situations when you are truly hard to see.
Clause 19.9
The rear fog lamp may only be switched on in conditions of insufficient visibility.
Explanation of application: during the dark hours (at night), the mere fact of darkness is not a reason to switch on the rear fog lamp — there must be conditions of insufficient visibility (fog, heavy rain, snowfall, etc.). In their absence, its use is prohibited.
Clause 1.10 (term "Insufficient visibility")
Insufficient visibility — road visibility of less than 300 m in twilight, fog, rain, snowfall, etc.
Explanation of application: it is precisely the presence of these conditions (and not just "night") that is the criterion when the rear fog lamp may be switched on according to clause 19.9.
Clause 1.10 (term "Dark hours")
Dark hours — the period from sunset to sunrise.
Explanation of application: the question clarifies that the action takes place at night, but the permission/prohibition to switch on the rear fog lamp is determined not by the "dark hours," but by the presence/absence of "insufficient visibility" (clause 19.9).
Therefore, the correct answer is "Prohibited," given that according to the definition of the Traffic Rules, the rear fog lamp is allowed to be switched on only in the presence of insufficient visibility conditions, and not just at night.
The rear fog lamp is not intended for illuminating the road, but rather to make the vehicle more noticeable to drivers behind when visibility is significantly reduced. Its light is red and quite bright, which draws increased attention.
Clause 19.9 of the Traffic Rules of Ukraine establishes a clear rule: the rear fog lamp is permitted to be used only in conditions of insufficient visibility. That is, what matters is not simply 'night,' but specifically the presence of fog, heavy rain, snowfall, smoke, or other reasons that make it difficult to distinguish objects on the road.
If at night visibility is sufficient and the regular position lights and low beam headlights are working, the rear fog lamp is not needed. On the contrary, due to its brightness, it can dazzle or disorient the driver behind, and can also create a false impression regarding distance or even resemble a brake signal, which increases the risk of incorrect actions.
For example, on a well-lit city street or on a highway without fog, when vehicles behind you can already clearly see your position lights and brake lights, a switched-on rear fog lamp will only be a hindrance. However, in dense fog or during heavy snowfall, it is appropriate, as it helps you to be noticed more quickly.
Therefore, the correct answer is 'Prohibited,' since according to clause 19.9, the rear fog lamp is allowed to be switched on only when there are conditions of insufficient visibility, and not just because it is nighttime.