What should happen to backup lights when the vehicle is not in reverse?

The backup lights of a vehicle are specifically designed to activate only when the vehicle is put into reverse gear. When the vehicle is not in reverse, the backup lights must turn off. This function is essential for safety, as it prevents confusion for other drivers and pedestrians regarding the vehicle's intended movement. If backup lights remained on continuously, flashed, or stayed dimmed while the vehicle is in another gear, it could mislead others about the vehicle's action and create unsafe situations. Therefore, the proper operation of backup lights is to extinguish them when the vehicle is not in reverse, ensuring clarity and safety on the road.