Motorists warned of £200 fine for using headlights in harmless way

Daily Record

3 days ago

You might think you are being courteous, but you could end up in trouble with one common action
Motorists could face a hefty fine for warning other motorists of speed cameras. Most drivers think they're being courteous when they flash their headlights to alert others of speed cameras, give way at junctions, or to even signal "thanks" to fellow motorists.
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However, these friendly flashes are actually illegal under Highway Code Rule 110 and could result in fines of up to £200 and penalty points. Even more alarmingly, drivers who flash their lights to warn others of police presence face potentially devastating penalties of up to £1,000 for obstructing police duties.
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Highway Code Rule 110 states that drivers should "only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there." It explicitly warns: "Do not flash your headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users."
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This means virtually every common use of headlight flashing is technically breaking the law, including warning other drivers of speed cameras, giving way at junctions, signalling "thank you," or expressing frustration. The penalties depend on exactly why drivers flashed their lights, creating a confusing two-tier system most motorists are unaware of.
Car finance expert and owner of Simple PCP Claims, Tom Riley, said: "Most drivers flash their lights with good intentions, thinking they're being helpful. But the law is crystal clear, you can only flash your headlights to alert others to your presence. Anything else could technically land you in hot water."
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The regulations stem from the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989. While Highway Code breaches aren't directly criminal, police can issue penalties when misuse creates danger or impedes law enforcement.
The Crown Prosecution Service specifically lists "giving a warning to other motorists of a police speed trap ahead" as an example of obstructing police duties, making it clear that authorities actively target this common practice.
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While prosecution for everyday "polite" flashing remains relatively rare, the legal framework exists to catch drivers who step outside legally acceptable bounds. Traffic officers are particularly vigilant about drivers warning others of speed cameras.
The confusion arises because headlight flashing has become ingrained in British driving culture. Many drivers assume it's perfectly legal, having learned these habits during lessons or from experienced drivers.
Tom Riley adds: "The £200 fine might not sound enormous, but add penalty points and you're looking at a serious hit to your driving record. For drivers who warn others about speed traps, that £1,000 maximum penalty could be financially devastating. The safest approach is simple, only flash when you genuinely need to alert someone to your presence."
With road traffic enforcement becoming increasingly sophisticated, drivers using headlights as a communication tool are playing a dangerous game with potentially expensive consequences.