What are the meanings of several common light signals?
2 Answers
The meanings of several commonly used light signals are as follows: 1. Flash headlights once: Nowadays, traffic lights are installed on almost all roads to direct traffic. However, some intersections have longer red light durations, so many drivers may lose focus while waiting. When the light turns green, they might not notice immediately. In such cases, flashing your headlights once can remind the driver ahead to move. This method avoids creating noise. If the driver ahead still doesn't respond, you can then use the horn. Additionally, when intending to overtake, flashing once can also signal the driver you wish to pass. 2. Flash headlights twice: One of the most annoying things when driving at night is encountering oncoming vehicles with high beams on. High beams make it difficult to see the road ahead, posing a significant safety hazard and increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, when you notice an oncoming car with high beams, flashing your headlights twice can remind them to switch to low beams. 3. Flash headlights three times: While driving, you might notice other vehicles with potential safety issues, such as visibly low tire pressure or unsecured doors or trunks. In such cases, flashing your headlights three times can alert the other driver to the problem. This kind of light signal can be lifesaving. If you're driving and another vehicle uses this signal to alert you, be sure to pull over and check your vehicle. 4. Lane change flash: Lane changes and merging are inevitable while driving. When a neighboring car signals to change lanes into your path, flashing your headlights once indicates your agreement. 5. Intermittent brake light usage: When driving, if the following vehicle is too close, sudden braking may not give the trailing driver enough time to react, leading to a rear-end collision. If you notice the trailing vehicle is following too closely, you can lightly tap the brakes intermittently to remind them to maintain a safe distance.
I know this like the back of my hand! Using headlights to communicate during long drives is quite interesting. Flashing high beams once is the most common way to kindly remind the car in front to move when they're dawdling. If an oncoming car has their high beams on, flashing twice signals protest. When hazard lights come on, it usually means the car has broken down or is driving slowly in heavy rain to alert vehicles behind. The most heartwarming gesture is when the car behind gives way, and you flash your hazards twice to say thank you—we veteran drivers all understand this 'Morse code.' Just remember not to flash lights randomly, especially in tunnels where sudden high beams can startle the car ahead.
