Drivers using button found in every car in England face £1,000 fine
Drivers have been warned of £1,000 fines for pressing a car button located in every vehicle in the UK. Quotezone warned flashing your headlight could cause you to be slapped with a big financial reprimand as the Cost of Living crisis continues.
The Highway Code warns road users, drivers and motorists should only ever flash their headlights to ‘let other road users know you are there’. Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone explained: “Flashing headlights is often seen as a courteous gesture, but it’s important for drivers to remember that misuse can have serious consequences.
“Flashing headlights to signal other drivers to proceed, warn of speed cameras, or communicate any other message can be misinterpreted and lead to confusion on the road. Not only can this be dangerous, but it could land drivers with a hefty fine of up to £1,000."
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Greg added: “It’s crucial that motorists stick to the intended use of headlights – to simply make other road users aware of their presence – so they don’t inadvertently break the law or risk their safety this winter.”
According to the Department of Transport, flashing your headlights to warn of a speed camera or roadside police speed check would be in breach of Rule 110 and 111 of the Code, which could stand up in a court of law as evidence.
A conviction for such an act, however, comes from a breach of section 89 of the Police Act 1996, which dictates that it is an offence to "wilfully obstruct a constable in the execution of his/her duty". Specialists at BigWantsYourCar.com said: “A simple headlight check can ensure that you are not unintentionally dazzling other road users or creating dangerous driving conditions.
“It’s vital that headlights are used responsibly, especially in low-visibility conditions, to keep the roads safe for everyone."