Auxiliary Lights for Vans – Why, When, and How?


Auxiliary lights in a van significantly improve the vehicle’s safety and work efficiency. For professional drivers, auxiliary lights are essential when driving in the dark, in poor weather conditions, and during work tasks. Properly selected and installed work lights on a van increase visibility and reduce the risk of accidents. The use of auxiliary lights is strictly regulated by road traffic laws across the Nordic countries, so legal use requires knowledge of the specific rules in each country.
Auxiliary lights installed on a van provide significant safety benefits for professional drivers. They improve visibility when driving at night, in poor weather conditions, and during work tasks, which reduces the risk of accidents and increases work efficiency.
Lighting is particularly important for transport professionals, who often drive at night or in challenging Nordic weather conditions. The benefits of auxiliary lights are especially visible in:
Improved visibility in fog, rain, and snowfall
Wider lighting area during loading and unloading
Reduced eye strain on long drives
Faster reaction times to unexpected situations
Van safety is significantly improved when the vehicle has sufficient lighting in all conditions. Work lights on a commercial vehicle are an investment that pays itself back through improved safety and work efficiency.
The regulations for auxiliary lights vary across Nordic countries. In Finland, auxiliary lights may mainly be used only on highways and motorways, with urban use prohibited unless visibility is particularly poor. Sweden has similar restrictions, allowing auxiliary lights on highways and rural roads but prohibiting their use in built-up areas. Norway and Denmark follow comparable regulations, generally permitting auxiliary lights outside urban areas and on highways.
Legal situations for van auxiliary lights across Nordic countries:
Highways and motorways at night
Poor weather conditions (fog, snowfall, heavy rain)
Work tasks while parked or moving slowly
Reversing and loading situations on private areas
In urban areas across all Nordic countries, auxiliary lights may not be used because they can dazzle other road users. The only exception is when visibility is exceptionally poor due to weather conditions. Installation of auxiliary lights is permitted throughout the Nordic region, but their use must be limited to situations allowed by each country’s traffic laws. Sweden allows some additional flexibility for work vehicles on rural roads, while Denmark has stricter enforcement in residential areas.
Choosing the right auxiliary lights depends on the intended use and the needs of the vehicle. LED lights are nowadays the most popular option due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and brightness, particularly important for Nordic winter conditions.
| Light type | Purpose | Recommended power |
|---|---|---|
| Driving auxiliary lights | Long-distance lighting | 20–40W LED |
| Work lights | Loading and work tasks | 10–20W LED |
| Fog lights | Poor weather conditions | 10–15W LED |
Work lights for vans should be chosen based on the specific need. Lazer Lamps products provide an excellent option for professional use, as they withstand demanding Nordic conditions and include a 5-year warranty.
The light pattern is an important selection criterion: a wide beam is suitable for work tasks, while a narrow driving light is best for long-distance illumination on Nordic highways.
Auxiliary lights are an essential safety investment for professional drivers across the Nordic region. They improve visibility, reduce the risk of accidents, and increase work efficiency in challenging winter conditions.
Key points to remember:
Choose LED technology for durability and efficiency
Follow road traffic law regulations specific to your country
Prefer high-quality brands to ensure longevity
Consider professional installation to guarantee optimal performance
Auxiliary lights should be installed by a professional who ensures correct positioning and electrical installation. This way you ensure safe and legal use in all Nordic countries where you operate.
Explore our range and contact us to find the right auxiliary lights for your needs.