Sep 11, 2019
Hazard lights are switched on by pressing a button on your dashboard that has a symbol of a red triangle.
When a driver switches on their hazard warning lights, all four indicators will start flashing intermittently to alert and warn other drivers that their vehicle is an obstruction.
But the question is, when is it actually suitable to use your hazard lights? Many people may switch their hazard lights on, thinking it’s appropriate, but according to the law it isn’t. If a driver misuses their hazard lights, not only could they be fined and penalised, but they can actually create a potential hazard and worse, cause an accident.
If you are ever unsure about the rules of the road, the best, most reliable source of information you can turn to is the Highway Code. In regards to this matter, the Highway Code states the following:
“You may use your hazard warning lights when your vehicle is stationary, to warn others that it is temporarily obstructing traffic”
For example, if you have broken down at the side of the road, changing a tyre or fixing a puncture; then your hazard warning lights should be on.
When you activate your headlights make sure that there isn’t anything behind your car that could be blocking your taillights.
The only exception for having your hazard warning lights on while you are moving is if there is a hazard ahead on a motorway or unrestricted dual carriageway and you need to warn drivers behind you of a hazard or obstruction ahead. Your hazard warning should only be long enough to ensure that your warning has been noted by other drivers.
You should never activate your hazard warning lights while
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