Yes, West Virginia does not explicitly prohibit driving with interior lights on, but compliance hinges on visibility standards under WV Code §17C-12-3. The state’s Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations require illumination that does not impair the driver’s ability to see or be seen, aligning with federal FMVSS guidelines. Local enforcement discretion applies, particularly in Morgantown and Charleston, where officers may cite violations under “improper lighting” if glare obstructs vision.
Key Regulations for Driving With Interior Lights On in West Virginia
- Visibility Standards: WV Code §17C-12-3 mandates that interior lighting must not reduce the driver’s forward or peripheral vision or distract other motorists, per West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) interpretations.
- Glare Restrictions: Interior lights must not project light onto rearview mirrors or windshields in a manner that obscures the driver’s view, as outlined in WV DMV Policy Directive 2024-05, effective January 2025.
- Local Enforcement Trends: Municipalities like Huntington and Wheeling have issued warnings under “unsafe vehicle equipment” (WV Code §17C-15-46) for excessive interior lighting, particularly in commercial zones.