When Should I Use My Hazard Lights?

Hazard lights are used to warn other drivers. These lights are basically used in case of an emergency. To activate your hazard lights, press the button with the red triangle. However, you should use your hazard lights with care. While these lights are meant to be used to warn other motorists or in case of an emergency, there are times when you should use them and other times when you should not. Using your hazard lights when you are not supposed to can cause confusion among other drivers, resulting in a dangerous situation. And if a car crash happens because you used your hazard lights in a situation you shouldn’t have, you may be considered negligent and held liable for the resulting harm.

When Should You Use Your Hazard Lights?

Below are some situations when it is safe and acceptable to use your car’s hazard lights;

• You get pulled over

If a police officer pulls you over while you are driving, you should pull over at the nearest safe location. If there is a safe spot to stop your car, proceed to stop. You do not have to use your hazard lights in such a case. However, if you don’t believe you can stop safely, slow down and turn on the hazard lights to acknowledge the officer’s signal and show them that you intend to stop as soon as it is safe for you to do so.

• You get into a crash

One of the most crucial times to use your hazard lights is after you’ve been involved in a crash. Turn on your hazard lights even before you exit your vehicle to check on the other vehicle’s occupants. Putting your hazard lights on will alert other motorists of the accident.

• Your car develops issues, or you are changing a tire

If your car has broken down and you are waiting for help, ensure you turn on your car’s hazard lights. If you are changing a tire, ensure you use your hazard lights. Putting on your hazard lights will allow other drivers to leave enough space between you and them when passing you.

• You are driving in a funeral motorcade

If you are part of a funeral motorcade, it is advisable that you use your hazard lights just like the other drivers. Because vehicles driving in a funeral motorcade usually travel slower than the regular traffic speed, using your hazard lights alerts other drivers that they should adjust their speed accordingly.

When Should You Not Turn on Your Hazard Lights?

The following are some situations where you should not turn on your hazard lights;

• When you are driving in bad weather
• When you are driving in heavy traffic
• When you are illegally parked

Legal Help Is Available

Our Miami personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm are here for you if you or a loved one gets into a car accident because of another driver’s fault. We can help you hold the at-fault driver accountable and recover the compensation you deserve.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Ocala, Orlando, Jacksonville, Tampa, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, Naples, and Melbourne areas.