Common driving courtesy on British roads that | Tech News

Courtesy when driving is important – however generally it might truly be a distraction. You would possibly suppose that you’re being well mannered however if you happen to make this common driving mistake, you would possibly end up £200 poorer.

Flashing your headlights at different drivers is usually seen as a technique to say thanks, and even to warn different drivers about upcoming police checks however consultants are urging drivers to ditch it.

Even although you suppose it is pleasant and innocent, it might truly be in breach of the Highway Code and result in some critical penalties.

Neil Atkinson, proprietor of Carrosserie, stated: “Flashing your headlights has become second nature for a lot of drivers in the UK, and many see it as a courteous gesture.

“But in reality, it’s often misunderstood. The Highway Code is very clear that headlights should only be used to let other road users know you’re there, not to communicate messages or instructions.”

According to the Highway Code Rule 110, drivers are instructed to “only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there.” If you flash your lights for another cause, it may be seen as misuse and be in breach of the law.

People can face fines of between £100 and £200, together with three to 6 penalty factors for careless driving. If you’re discovered to have flashed your lights to warn different drivers about pace cameras or police checks, the penalties will be even larger.

Being caught doing this may occasionally end in a charge of “wilfully obstructing a constable” beneath Section 89 of the Police Act 1996, which carries a potential high quality of up to £1,000.

Neil stated: Neil added: “A lot of drivers don’t realise that trying to warn others about police activity could actually be seen as interfering with law enforcement.

“It’s always safer to stick to the official guidance and avoid using your headlights for anything other than making your presence known.”