Warning to drivers over flashing to alert other road users of speed cameras

It may seem like a considerate act - but it's actually breaking traffic rules

11:31, 14 Dec 2024

Some drivers might be tempted to flash their headlights as a warning for speed traps, but this act of perceived kindness could land them in hot water. While it may feel like helping your fellow driver, it's actually against the rules of the road and might result in a heavy fine.

The Highway Code[3] is clear on this with Rule 110 stating: "Only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there. Do not flash your headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users."

On top of that, under section 89 of the Police Act 1997, disrupting a police officer while they're carrying out their duties can be deemed an offence - something that includes flashing lights to signal the presence of speed cameras, and may lead to a fine of up to GBP1,000.

This amount is significantly steeper than the standard penalty for being caught by a speed camera, which is usually GBP100 and three points on one's licence, Birmingham Live has pointed out.

Despite the common practice among motorists to issue these informal heads-ups via headlight flashes, especially pertaining to mobile speed cameras, there have been instances where drivers faced legal consequences, such as a notorious case in 2011 that grabbed the nation's attention.

A driver in North-East England was fined GBP175 after attempting to warn other motorists about safety, ending up in a courtroom. The motorist was also slapped with GBP250 in costs and a GBP15 victim surcharge, reports North Wales Live[6].

The Highway Code has stringent rules on signalling to other drivers, highlighting through Rule 110 that it's almost never appropriate to flash your lights. Further elaboration in Rule 111 cautions: "Never assume that flashing headlights is a signal inviting you to proceed.

Use your own judgement and proceed carefully."

Moreover, Rule 112 makes the car horn guidelines clear: "Use only while your vehicle is moving and you need to warn other road users of your presence.

Never sound your horn aggressively.

You MUST NOT use your horn except when another road user poses a danger."

References

1. ^ News (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
2. ^ Emilia Bona (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
3. ^ The Highway Code (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
4. ^ 'Fireworks' heard as car goes up in flames (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
5. ^ Tributes paid to 'forever young' man who died in dock tragedy (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
6. ^ North Wales Live (www.dailypost.co.uk)