ok so the big debate/ rant

There's no debate, idk if you'll get a ticket but yes, it is a DOT violation.

Just like if you dont have mudflap while hooked to a trailer, youre OK.

However, if you have the mudflap bracket on and no flap/reflectors, thats also a violation.

 

Legally it’s a required light even with a trailer.

I’d start by cutting everything apart where it’s bundled together at the back of the frame. If one side works normal and the other side doesn’t it’s usually pretty easy to inspect the wires going to the inoperable side, especially if only one function of the light isn’t working.

 

Huh??

You have a light out, then you get a ticket. Lights are easy to fix, you could tester like the one in my link and use that to trace the problem - everyone should have one of these anyway.

https://www.amazon.com/Finder-Gener...argid=pla-906439828688&psc=1&region_id=972485

 

No, the rule is all required lights must work. Additional lights are not required to work. That is not guidance, it is in the regs themselves. 393.9(a) states: “All lamps required by this subpart shall be capable of being operated at all times. This paragraph shall not be construed to require that any auxiliary or additional lamp be capable of operating at all time

 

Both are wrong.
If it's a required light it must work. If it's a light that's not required then it doesn't have to work. Having a trailer hooked up or not has no bearing if it's a required light or not.
For a list of required lights read the FMCSA 393.11
Federal Register :: Request Access

Also, to those saying all lights must work read the last sentence @Bean Jr. just posted, burn it into your mind. That way you will stop spreading incorrect information

 

Ask 10 so called qualified DOT inspectors the same question
Guarantee you’ll get 10 different answers
Best to have everything up to snuff
Jus Sayin

 

Only if you get caught by a sour DOT officer.