Is Parking with Hazard Lights On Considered a Violation?
2 Answers
Yes, it is considered a violation. If a vehicle is parked in a no-parking zone for more than 30 seconds, electronic monitoring devices will automatically capture the violation. Below is a detailed introduction about it: Illegal parking: Refers to situations where a vehicle is parked in violation of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China," meaning the vehicle is not parked in the designated area. Stop-and-go: Means that when parking on the roadside, the vehicle should stay close to the right side of the road, and the driver must not leave the vehicle. After picking up or dropping off passengers or loading/unloading goods, the vehicle must immediately leave. No-parking signs: No-parking zones are marked with no-parking signs, and the road surface is also marked with yellow no-parking lines. If a vehicle is parked in a no-parking zone for more than 30 seconds, electronic monitoring devices will automatically capture the violation.
I once had an experience while driving. I was parked by the roadside waiting for a friend with my hazard lights on, and a patrolling traffic police officer came over and fined me 200 yuan. He explained that hazard lights are specifically for emergency situations, such as when a vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident, to alert drivers behind. Using them during normal parking can easily mislead other drivers into thinking there's danger ahead, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. I later learned that traffic regulations clearly prohibit the misuse of hazard lights, and doing so counts as illegal parking. Many people in the city habitually turn on their hazard lights when temporarily parked by the roadside, but this often harms both themselves and others. I recommend finding a proper parking spot instead of trying to save time, or else fines and penalty points are inevitable. Only use hazard lights in genuine emergencies, like when your vehicle breaks down—turning them on immediately can help ensure safety.
