At night, is it mandatory to signal a load that projects laterally more than 0.40 metres beyond the outer edge of the vehicle's position lights?

Correct answer

Yes, on each of its lateral ends.

Yes. Under article 15.7, each lateral extremity must have a white light and white reflector facing forwards, and a red light and red reflector facing backwards. The threshold is measured from the outer edge of the front or rear position lamp, not the bodywork edge. This also applies in significantly reduced visibility. V-20 panels concern rear overhang in article 15.6’s cases; they do not replace this lateral lighting. Marking a load does not authorise exceeding permitted dimensions.