Mounting Accessories on Bullbars
A Bullbar is a popular accessory fitted in many Four Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicles. Its main purpose is
to provide frontal protection. It is also an ideal place to mount accessories such as UHF antennas,
safety sand flags, winches, high lift jacks, spot lights and light bars.
However, many of these accessories can be seen fitted incorrectly. They are not compliant with the
safety rules and guidelines specified by road authorities and agencies in many states/territories.
The LED light bar is commonly seen fitted above the bulbar. This type of fitting is correct and can
obstruct the driver’s vision. It is also not pedestrian friendly and can cause severe injuries to a person
struck by the vehicle. Many vehicles will not meet the vision requirement of 11 metres from the
driver’s seat. The reference below from Vicroads gives more information.
You may not see as much as you should
The bullbar should not obstruct the vision of the driver. It should also not project
further beyond the front of the vehicle than is necessary. When sitting in the driver’s
seat, in the rearmost position, the driver must be able to see, either the surface of
the road 11 metres in front of the front of the vehicle, or the front edge of the
vehicle, when looking across the top of the bulbar.
Vic Roads Ref - https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/vehicle-safety/bullbars
When fitting accessories on the bulbar consider the following;
1. Is it really necessary (remember adding weight reduces the payload)
2. Is it obstructing the vision of the driver?
3. Is it possible to mount the accessory in a different location? – e.g roof
4. Will the fitting be compliant?
Conforming to the rules and guidelines will make your vehicle safer for you and other road users.