Texas Basic Peace Officer Certification Practice Exam

According to the Transportation Code, what color must a lighting device or reflector mounted on the rear of a vehicle reflect?

1. Red

2. Yellow

3. Red or yellow

4. Amber or yellow

The correct answer is: Red

In the context of Texas law, specifically the Transportation Code, lighting devices or reflectors that are mounted on the rear of a vehicle are required to reflect red. This requirement is in place to enhance visibility and communicate to other drivers the presence and position of the vehicle, especially in low-light conditions or at night. The color red is universally recognized as signaling caution or potential danger, which is vital for maintaining safety on the road. This regulation ensures that vehicles are easily identifiable from the rear, preventing accidents and enhancing road safety. While yellow or amber may be used for other purposes on vehicles, such as turn signals or hazard lights, the specific requirement for rear-facing lighting devices is firmly established as red in the Transportation Code. This distinct color coding helps create a standardized system that all drivers can understand and rely on for safe navigation on the roadways.