A lot of drivers are “trigger happy” when it comes to their hazard lights. They’re a little lenient as to their definition of a hazard. These lights are amazing tools that can help improve safety when used properly. Of course, with “properly” being the operative word, you should know when to use them.
Most Important Thing
The most important thing that you have to know is using hazard lights is not permitted in some areas. For example, it’s not allowed to use the lights in the areas of Florida, Alaska, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico and Rhode Island. On the other hand, some areas have set rules on when and where to use them. This is why it’s a good idea to know first whether the use of these lights is allowed on where you plan on driving.
When can You Use them?
Here are the instances where it’s a good idea to use your hazard lights:
• To let drivers know that you’re driving slowly.
When drivers see a car with their hazard lights turned on, one of the first things that they assume is that this car is driving slowly. It could be because the car is experiencing some troubles and can’t drive faster. If you’re driving slowly, you can turn on these lights to warn the drivers behind you that they should slow down so they can maneuver around you safely.
• To let drivers know that your car is having some troubles.
If you feel that your car’s troubles make you a hazard on the road, turn on these lights to warn other drivers that they should give you a wider space. This is needed when you need to drive a short distance so you can stop the car at the side of the road that’s safer. Once you’re ready to move to the side of the road, turn off these lights and use your signal lights instead.
• When your car is at a full stop anywhere along the road and you need help.
If your car is at a full stop anywhere along the road, probably because of an emergency, it’s a good idea to turn on these lights. This is to let other drivers know that you’re there and having troubles. This is also to let the authorities know that you need help.
• To let other drivers know of a road hazard.
If you feel that the road is unsafe, like if there’s a rock slide up ahead, turn on the lights. By turning on these lights, you’re warning the drivers behind that they should slow down.
• While driving in bad weather.
Most drivers automatically turn on their hazard lights in bad weather to increase visibility.
One Important Consideration
Remember that in most cases, your signal lights won’t be visible or are barely visible if you have the hazard lights on. Take this into consideration when using them. Also, if your car is a hazard on the road, pull over at the first safe spot instead of driving for a long distance as a road hazard.
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