In Massachusetts, police can pull you over for a broken tail light, but the specific legal basis depends on whether the malfunction affects the required visibility and color of the lights.
Key Legal Requirements
Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 85, Section 15 requires that every vehicle on a public way must have headlights and taillights that are turned on and displayed so they are visible from the front and rear during certain hours and poor visibility conditions. However, this section does not explicitly mention the physical condition of the tail light cover.
Rear Lighting Requirements: According to additional state regulations, every motor vehicle must be equipped with two rear lights mounted at each side, showing two red lights from behind, and a white light to illuminate the rear license plate. These lights must be visible and functioning properly.
Can You Be Pulled Over for a Broken Tail Light?
Yes, if the tail light is not functioning or not visible as required by law. Police can stop you for an equipment violation if your tail light is out or does not emit the correct color and visibility.
Broken Tail Light Cover: If the cover is broken but the tail light itself is still functioning, visible, and emitting the correct color, there is no clear legal basis in Massachusetts law that prohibits driving with just a broken tail light cover—unless the breakage changes the color, position, or functionality of the light. However, some inspection stations may fail your vehicle for a broken tail light cover, and some officers may still issue a warning or citation, citing safety or equipment regulations.
Officer Discretion: Police often use broken tail lights as a reason to conduct a stop, even if the issue is minor or cosmetic. This is considered a legitimate reason for a traffic stop in many states, including Massachusetts, as long as the officer has reasonable suspicion of a violation.
Summary Table
| Situation | Can You Be Pulled Over? | Legal Basis in MA Law |
|---|---|---|
| Tail light out or not visible | Yes | Chapter 85, Section 15 |
| Broken tail light cover only | Unlikely, but possible | No clear law if light works |
| Cover alters light color/function | Yes | Chapter 85, Section 15 |
You can be pulled over in Massachusetts if your tail light is not functioning or not visible as required by law.
If only the cover is broken and the light itself is working and visible, there is no clear legal basis for a stop, but police may still use their discretion to stop you for safety or inspection reasons. Always ensure your vehicle’s lights are in good working order to avoid unnecessary stops.
Sources:
- https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXIV/Chapter85/Section15
- https://wnaw.com/massachusetts-law-requires-this-on-your-vehicle-or-you-get-pulled-over/
- https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/pulled-over-with-a-broken-tail-light–1850357.html