The polite driving gesture that can lead to a £70 fine

Car headlights at night
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When you're trying to navigate a busy road, there may be times where obstacles such as parked cars get in the way. Even if you have right of way, you might decide to be polite and let the other motorist through, but the way you gesture to them could potentially see you slapped with a fine.

The Highway Code has a set of strict rules around when you should flash your headlights, and while it's a common occurrence on the roads, you're not supposed to flash your lights to indicate you're letting someone through. The relevant paragraph is rule 110, which states: "Flashing headlights. 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."

Following on, rule 111 says: "Never assume that flashing headlights is a signal inviting you to proceed. Use your own judgement and proceed carefully." So, if someone flashes to let you through and the manoeuvre causes an accident, be aware that you're likely to be judged as the one at fault.

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What this means is that drivers should only flash their headlights if they need to make another driver aware of their presence or to warn them of a hazard. Those who flash their headlights to show their annoyance or to communicate with other drivers, are in breach of the Highway Code.

Drivers could find themselves with a penalty charge notice (PCN), the cost of which varies between areas. The fine is £50 or £70 in Coventry, depending on the seriousness of the offence. If paid within 14 days, the PCN is reduced by 50% to £25 or £35.

There's also a form of headlight flashing can even land you in serious legal trouble. Flashing your headlights to warn others of speed checks ahead can fall under the offence of Obstructing a Police Officer under section 89(2) of the Police Act 1996. This act could see you sent to a magistrates court, with a maximum sentence of one months’ imprisonment.