Do you know what a retro-reflector is?

 

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.