kitten@pertec.UUCP (karen hettinger) (09/28/84)
Just a reminder...a few nights back I saw, within 5 miles of each other,
*three* cars with *no* tailights. I didn't even know they were there
until they were pratically in my beams. Since the whole set was out in
each case, it was probably a simple problem of a dead fuse. None gave
the indication of an intermitant short (such as flikering on bumps).
It's so easy to check your lights, too, even if you're by yourself.
When you start up the car, make sure the brake is set and get out for
a quick walk around. Check all tailights, side marker lights (these have
saved thousands of lives since they were first introduced), and headlights.
Then position the car such that it throws light on something in front and
behind you (two walls are best). Then you can check you signals front and
back, and your brake lights (to an extent, if you have 2 brake lights per
side it may be difficult to determine intensity on both sides), as well
as your reverse lights. Reverse lights are important, too, as they serve
two purposes: 1) they indicate to other drivers you are backing (*very*
important in parking lots) and 2) at night they light your way behind you
(that's why they're white). Also, next time you're at the auto parts
store, pick up some fuses (if you don't have them already) and a package
of each kind of bulb your car uses externally. This can be very handy
when you are on a long trip and a lamp dies, you will still be able to
assure yourself the safety of being seen.
End of lecture :-)
--
kitten~
{ucbvax!unisoft | scgvaxd | trwrb | felix}!pertec!kitten