Drivers risk facing huge a £1,000 fine for a common headlights mistake

27 May 2024 , 18:15

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Giving other motorists a heads up about nearby police camera vans can actually land you a hefty fine (Image: PhotoAlto / Odilon Dimier via Getty)

Motorists flashing headlights at approaching drivers often means one thing - police camera vans ahead.

But doing so risks landing you a hefty rule, due to a little-known rule. The heads up over speed camera vans isn't looked on kindly by police, and is actually considered an offence.

A surprising 40% of people were unaware of the rule, while 20% confessed to doing it in the past. Those found guilty could face a nasty £1,000 fine.

While some drivers might question the harm, the police aims to observe natural road conditions - especially at known speeding hotspots where safety issues may have been flagged. Other frowned-upon behaviours involving flashing headlights include intimidating other drivers, such as when approaching in the outside lane of a motorway, reports Birmingham Live.

Rule 110 of the Highway Code explicitly states: "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." In areas notorious for parking issues, police are often vigilant as numerous drivers fall foul of this rule.

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Nick Powell from the AA stressed the significance of being conversant with the Highway Code: "It's important that every driver is fully aware of the Highway Code, to ensure they keep themselves, and others, safe while on the roads. A lack of understanding from even one driver can impact the safety of every other vehicle, cyclist, and pedestrian they share the road with, as well as the people or pets they might have in their car."

He also recommended motorists to regularly brush up on their knowledge of traffic laws: "Motorists should take the time to refresh their knowledge of traffic rules and regulations, no matter how long they're been driving, and should also avoid any common mistakes, such as speeding or swearing at other motorists.

"Drivers are accountable for the safety of all their passengers too, so they need to ensure they don't overfill the vehicle, that any pets are secured, and that every single person is wearing a seatbelt."

Richard Guttridge