why do cars have side lights?

Answer 1

so that the lights can be left on without the ignition being on. some cars like the Toyota has a separate ignition position for side lights only and VW's, Audi's and some other cars you can turn off the ignition off and control the sidelights via the indicator switch to what side you want the side lights.

Mechanic & mot tester

Paul

Answer 2

For parking purposes, so others can see the car if need be. The Powers That Be are trying to get us to call them "parking lights".
Unless, of course, you mean lights actually on the side of the car - that's supposed to make the car visible from the sides.

Answer 3

Mainly as a parking light so that they can be seen when parked in a dark area at night

Answer 4

If you are backing out of your driveway at night and the drivers on the road can only see a side view of your car, then they know you are there by seeing your sidelights.

Answer 5

These are the minimum legal requirement when driving at night on well-lit roads (except on motorways, when you also need headlights).

They also double up as parking lights.

Answer 6

do you mean the bright light that stays on to illuminate the direction of the turn or th amber and red ones that serve as a visual safety feature for night traffic.

Answer 7

for parking and using at dusk when not dark enough for full headlights but light enough just for side lights or if the conditions are wet and miserable

Answer 8

So that you can leave them on if you park on the side of a narrow or particularly dark road.

Answer 9

So the approximate size and direction of the vehicle can be seen in the dark.

Answer 10

To be used when parking in badly lit areas.