As traffic enforcement becomes stricter and roads more heavily monitored, motorists are being cautioned against making this potentially costly mistake that many drivers believe is just good manners
An expert has warned Brit drivers who flash their headlights at road users that they could be fined — or face even stiffer penalties — under a little-known rule in the Highway Code.
Highway Code Rule 110 expressly states: “Only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there.” A great many motorists see flashing their headlights as a way of saying ‘thank you’, warning other drivers about speed cameras, or indicating that you are giving way at a junction.
But according to Rule 110, these actions are technically illegal and could result in fines and penalty points on your licence. It comes after UK drivers were warned over ‘avoiding’ road instead of having to follow new rule.
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It further warns drivers not to flash headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users. Virtually every common use of flashing headlights, beyond alerting one’s presence, is therefore against the rules.
Penalties depend on the reason behind the flashing. For general misuse like giving way or signalling thanks, motorists risk fines between £100 and £200 plus three to six penalty points for careless driving. However, flashing headlights to warn others about police presence or speed traps carries a much heavier risk. This can be prosecuted as “wilfully obstructing a constable” under Section 89 of the Police Act 1996, with fines reaching up to £1,000.
Car finance expert from Simple PCP Claims, Tom Riley, said: “Most drivers flash their lights with good intentions, thinking they’re being helpful. But the law is crystal clear, you can only flash your headlights to alert others to your presence. Anything else could technically land you in hot water.”
This legal framework comes from the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989, and although breaking the Highway Code itself is not always a criminal offence, police can issue penalties if misuse causes danger or obstructs law enforcement.
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The Crown Prosecution Service specifically highlights that “giving a warning to other motorists of a police speed trap ahead” constitutes obstruction, making this practice a target for authorities. While prosecution for common “polite” flashing is rare, it’s wiser to follow the rules and avoid the risk.
Public confusion arises because flashing headlights has long been ingrained in British driving culture as a form of polite communication learned during driving lessons or from experienced drivers. However, the rules are explicit that such use is illegal. Rule 111 reinforces this by advising: “Never assume that flashing headlights is a signal inviting you to proceed. Use your own judgement and proceed carefully.”
Safety experts also warn against misuse of headlight flashing because it can lead to misunderstandings or accidents. Scams such as “Flash-for-Cash” have been widely reported, where criminals flash lights to trick drivers into pulling out at junctions, only to deliberately cause collisions and claim fraudulent insurance payouts.
The legal consequences of improper flashing can be significant. Tom Riley explained: “The £200 fine might not sound enormous, but add penalty points and you’re looking at a serious hit to your driving record. For drivers who warn others about speed traps, that £1,000 maximum penalty could be financially devastating. The safest approach is simple, only flash when you genuinely need to alert someone to your presence.”
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