A driving instructor and theory test expert, Annie Winterburn, discusses the misconception that flashing headlights is acceptable to let others out of a junction or as a thank you, while highlighting the potential dangers and mistakes that drivers may make.
Motorists could be misusing their headlights without realising. According to one driving expert, the habit is " not necessary " and could cause a crash or someone to fail their test.
The driving instructor and theory test expert Annie Winterburn, from Theory Test Practice, said both learner and experienced drivers need to be cautious when another motorist flashes their lights. Taking to TikTok, Annie asked her 1.2 million followers: "Is it okay to flash your lights to let somebody know that you’re letting them out of a junction, or flashing your lights to thank somebody?
" The answer? Don't do it. She explained: "No, it’s not. You should flash your lights as a warning to warn other road users of your presence.
"But what are you going to do if somebody flashes their lights at you? What are you going to do in your driving test if somebody flashes their lights to say you can come out?
" Talking to all road users, not just learners, the expert suggests: "The first thing you’re going to do if you’re going to make sure that they are talking to you, that they are flashing their lights for you, and that it's actually safe for you to do what they’re asking you to do "So you don’t need to ignore them, but you don’t need to be very cautious and very careful. Don’t go if it’s not safe.
"If it is safe, make sure they’re actually talking to you. Because you don’t know, there could be somebody behind you.
" The fully qualified driving instructor and trainer, who has more than a decade of experience, explained: "I was in a driving lesson many years ago, and somebody flashed their lights. "A car driver went, and at the same time, an ambulance driver behind them went. They crashed into each other. So make sure they’re talking to you.
" She ended her video by saying flashing your lights is "not necessary” unless you are using them to alert other drivers to your presence. Highway Code says 'do not' when drivers are 'flashing lights' According to the Highway Code, Rule 104 notes that drivers should "watch out for signals given by other road users and proceed only when you are satisfied that it is safe.
" Rule 110 covers "flashing headlights" and states: "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.
" Rule 111 also addresses this behaviour, with experts urging road users: "Never assume that flashing headlights is a signal inviting you to proceed. Use your own judgement and proceed carefully. "
Driving Habits Headlights Misusing Them Expert Advice Dangerous Unnecessary Crash Mistakes Safety Explained Danger Not Necessary Mistake Flashing Awareness Dangers
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