Michigan § 257.686 - Rear lamps; exemption; requirements for implement of husbandry; pickup camper.

Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.686 — Rear lamps; exemption; requirements for implement of husbandry; pickup camper., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 257.686. Rear lamps; exemption; requirements for implement of husbandry; pickup camper.

Sec. 686.

(1) A motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, or vehicle which is being drawn in a train of vehicles shall be equipped with at least 1 rear lamp mounted on the rear, which, when lighted as required by this act, shall emit a red light plainly visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear.

(2) Either a tail lamp or a separate lamp shall be constructed and placed so as to illuminate with a white light the rear registration plate and render it clearly legible from a distance of 50 feet to the rear. A tail lamp or tail lamps, together with any separate lamp for illuminating the rear registration plate, shall be wired so as to be lighted whenever the head lamps or auxiliary driving lamps are lighted.

(3) A motor vehicle licensed as an historic vehicle is exempt from the requirements of this section if the vehicle as originally equipped failed to meet these requirements.

(4) When operated or moved on a highway at the times specified in section 684, an implement of husbandry shall meet either of the following requirements:

(a) For implements of husbandry manufactured before January 1, 2007, the following:

(i) Display lighted rear lamps which meet the requirements of subsection (1).

(ii) Be accompanied by a vehicle which follows behind the implement of husbandry at a distance of not more than 50 feet, illuminates the implement of husbandry with the vehicle's headlights, and displays on the rear of the vehicle lighted rear lamps as required by this section.

(b) For implements of husbandry manufactured on or after January 1, 2007, the provisions of section 684a.

(5) A pickup camper shall be attached to the motor vehicle in a manner so that the registration plate of the motor vehicle is clearly visible.

Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 257.686

What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.686 cover?

Section 257.686 ("Rear lamps; exemption; requirements for implement of husbandry; pickup camper.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Michigan § 257.686?

A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.686" (Michigan). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Michigan law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.

How does Michigan § 257.686 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.