Need a refresher on hazard light rules? Read on to learn when to use hazard warning lights safely.
You should only turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights in certain situations - namely those detailed in the Highway Code.
What are hazard lights for?
As their name suggests, hazard lights are designed to be used when the vehicle they are fitted to presents a hazard to other road users, or when there are other hazards that the driver wishes to alert others to - e.g., an accident scene ahead.
Are hazard lights the same as indicator lights?
Yes, your car’s hazard lights and indicator lights are the same, they just run in different sequences. All four hazard lights flash on and off until the driver deactivates them. Conversely, indicator lights only work on one side (two lights) to indicate a turn, and are switched off after that turn is made. Hazard lights may flash at a slightly slower rate than indicators.
When are you allowed to use hazard warning lights?
1. When Your Vehicle is Stationary and Causing an Obstruction
- Use hazard lights if your vehicle has broken down or is stationary in a potentially dangerous location, such as on the hard shoulder of a motorway, or on a busy road.
- Turn them on when stopping temporarily in a place where stopping may not be expected by other road users, such as on a narrow or blind bend.
2. When Driving on a Motorway or Unrestricted Dual Carriageway in an Emergency
- If you need to warn other drivers of danger ahead, such as a sudden traffic jam, you may briefly flash your hazard lights to alert vehicles behind you.
- Use them when moving slowly on a motorway due to an unavoidable issue (e.g., while trying to reach a safe place following a mechanical problem/breakdown).
Hazard light rules when being towed
Hazards should not be used while being towed unless you need to warn other drivers of something. This may be useful since a driver to the rear may not be able to see the lights of the towing vehicle. Only use them for as long as needed to warn other road users.
When NOT to Use Hazard Warning Lights (UK Law)
Misusing hazard warning lights can confuse other drivers and is discouraged by the Highway Code (see Highway Code lighting requirements).
Avoid using hazard lights in the following situations:
1. When Driving Normally
- Do not use hazard lights while driving in heavy rain, fog, or snow. Instead, use dipped headlights, fog lights, or rear lights - as appropriate.
2. When Parked Legally
- Do not use hazard lights when parked legally, even if temporarily loading or unloading, unless your vehicle is creating an obstruction.
3. When Parking Illegally
- Hazard lights do not excuse or mitigate illegal parking, such as on double yellow lines, on a zig-zag line near a zebra crossing, or in a disabled parking space when a valid permit has not been displayed.
4. When Stopping Temporarily in Traffic
- Do not use hazard lights when queuing in traffic, at traffic lights, or in traffic jams. This could mislead drivers behind you.
5. In Place of Proper Indicators
- Do not use hazard lights instead of indicators when turning, pulling over, or changing lanes. Proper signaling, in line with the Highway Code, is essential for optimal road safety.
How are hazard lights operated?
Hazard lights are operated by a large button on your dashboard featuring a double-lined red triangle. Your hazard lights will flash continuously until you press the button again. Naturally, if you have a flat battery, your hazard lights won’t work.
If you have broken down and have a warning triangle, consider using it to warn other road users you present a hazard. Place it at least 45 metres (147 feet) to the rear of your vehicle on level ground. But do not use a warning triangle on a motorway, or if it is otherwise unsafe to do so.
Hazard lights - recap
- Hazard warning lights should only be used to warn other road users of a hazard or danger.
- Misusing hazard lights is a breach of the Highway Code and could potentially result in penalties if it results in dangerous driving or an accident.
