What is the required visibility for a red light when a load extends at night?

The requirement for a red light to be visible from 500 feet when a load extends at night is based on safety regulations aimed at ensuring that other drivers can see the load and understand that it is obstructing part of the roadway. This distance is critical to providing ample time for drivers approaching from behind to react appropriately. The visibility of 500 feet allows for adequate reaction time and helps to prevent collisions by alerting drivers well in advance of any hazards.

Regulations specify this distance to minimize accidents involving extended loads at night because visibility can be significantly reduced in low-light conditions. By requiring a red light to be visible from such a distance, it emphasizes the importance of being aware of the road environment, particularly in terms of unexpected obstacles or changes in traffic conditions. In contrast, shorter visibility distances may not provide enough warning for safe navigation around the extended load, which is why the requirement is set at this higher standard.