When should you avoid using hazard lights while driving?

You’re behind the wheel when, suddenly, a heavy snowstorm, heavy rain or a thick bank of fog severely reduces your visibility. In these conditions, would your first instinct be to keep driving and turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you? If so, that’s the wrong action to take. Here’s what you should know about the hazards of hazard lights.

What the law states

In Quebec, Section 377 of the Highway Safety Code states, “No person may use the flashing emergency lights of a road vehicle except for reasons of safety.” However, drivers often misinterpret this law as it relates to their own and others’ safety, specifically whether a situation warrants activating their hazard lights.

In other words, reduced visibility on the road, whether caused by heavy rain, fog or a snowstorm, doesn’t constitute an emergency. So, in what situations is it appropriate to activate your hazard lights? Here are the standard reasons for using them:

• You’re forced to pull over to the side of the road.
• You encounter a sudden obstacle on the road, such as an accident or an animal, which forces you to slow down abruptly.
• An unexpected mechanical problem forces you to drive significantly below the speed limit.

The possible dangers

Using your hazard lights when they aren’t required poses risks that are sometimes underestimated—and that’s in addition to the risk of getting a ticket. Remember that flashing hazard lights make your turn signals ineffective. The inability to indicate your intention to turn or change lanes makes your movements unpredictable to other drivers.

In addition, a driver approaching from behind who sees your hazard lights flashing might mistakenly believe your vehicle is stopped. They might then instinctively brake suddenly or make a dangerous manoeuvre to avoid you. Driving in fog or heavy rain? The appropriate action is to reduce your speed and turn on your low beams. This will improve your visibility and, above all, keep you safe.

Looking for more safety tips? Visit the M 360 Mechanic blog regularly.