Despite the
strangeness of the word, it is a common element in a car's lighting system that
serves to signal its presence and dimensions.
When we are behind
the wheel, over 90% of the information we receive about what is happening on
the road comes to us through our eyes, and to perform most of the maneuvers we
rely on sight. It is therefore clear the importance of seeing… and of being
seen. This is where the car's lighting system comes in, made up of several
elements, some of which are somewhat unknown: the DGT clarifies what a
retro-reflector is and what it is used for.
Although this is a
strange word, the truth is that it is a component that is common to all
vehicles. A reflector is a signaling element that reflects the light of an
external light source, that is to say, that they come into action when another
vehicle lights upon us. So it works like the reflective vest.
What is a
retro-reflector used for?
Its function,
according to the General Directorate of Traffic, is to indicate the presence of
the car in addition to helping to distinguish and recognize its dimensions
using this reflection of light which comes from an independent source.
Are they
compulsory? Yes. In the case of cars, they must have four reds on the back.
However, some models complement them with others located on the front or side.
It should be taken into account that reflective license plates, additional
panels (such as contour marking), or light beacons like the V-16 are not
considered reflectors.
It's not exclusive
to cars
Although we have
talked about cars, reflectors are mandatory on all types of vehicles. the
motorcycles and mopeds must have a non-triangular redback: if there is one, it
must be located and if there are two, it must be symmetrical. Optionally, they
can carry one or two on each side.
the bike they must
integrate at the back: it must be red and not triangular. Finally, the vehicles
for the transport of goods and people They must have two non-triangular redbacks.
The yellow sides will only be mandatory on trailers and vehicles over six
meters in length.
