When it comes to safety on the road, reflective tape is an essential accessory for any vehicle. One of the most popular types of reflective tape is dot C2 reflective tape, which is effective in making your vehicle visible to other drivers on the road. But where exactly should you place it to ensure maximum visibility?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), dot C2 reflective tape should be placed on the sides and rear of any commercial vehicle that is over 10,000 pounds in weight. This includes trucks, trailers, and buses. The tape should be reflective for at least 50% of its surface area and should be visible from a distance of at least 500 feet.
For trucks and trailers, the FMCSA recommends placing the tape in a continuous strip along the full length of the vehicle, starting at the lower rear corner and running up and over the top of the vehicle. If the vehicle has a flatbed or cargo area, the tape should also be placed around the perimeter of the area.
In addition to the sides and rear of the vehicle, dot C2 reflective tape can also be placed on the front of the vehicle to increase visibility to oncoming traffic. This is especially important if the vehicle operates in low light conditions or areas with reduced visibility.
When installing the tape, it is important to ensure that the surface on which it is being applied is clean and dry. The tape should be pressed firmly onto the surface to ensure a secure hold. Additionally, the edges of each piece of tape should overlap slightly to create a continuous reflective surface.
Overall, the placement of dot C2 reflective tape on commercial vehicles is essential to ensuring the safety of drivers and passengers on the road. By following the guidelines set by the FMCSA, you can ensure that your vehicle is visible to other drivers, reducing the risk of accidents and increasing the overall safety of our roads.
