Hazard lights, also known as flashers or emergency flashers, are a set of blinking lights (all four turn signals) used to warn other drivers that your vehicle is a temporary hazard. You activate them by pressing a button typically marked with a red triangle. Their core purpose is to increase your car's visibility to others, signaling that you are stopped in or near the flow of traffic due to an emergency, a mechanical problem, or driving in a way that requires extra caution.
The most appropriate times to use your hazard lights are quite specific. They are essential when your car is disabled on the side of a road or highway, when you are driving significantly slower than the flow of traffic (like during a tow), or during a genuine emergency like a medical event. Some states also permit their use in severe weather conditions with drastically reduced visibility, but it's critical to check local laws, as regulations vary. For instance, using hazards while moving in heavy rain is illegal in some states but allowed in others.
It's equally important to know when not to use them. Hazard lights should not be used while driving normally in bad weather, as it can confuse other drivers and cancel your ability to use turn signals. They are also not for illegal parking; using them while parked in a no-parking zone does not make it legal.
Below is a summary of common state laws regarding hazard light use while driving, demonstrating the importance of knowing your local regulations.
| State | Use While Driving in Rain | Use While Driving for Funeral Procession | Additional Notes |
|---|
| Florida | Permitted | Permitted | Allowed for any situation where visibility is low. |
| California | Prohibited | Not Specified | Illegal to use while moving unless otherwise stated. |
| Texas | Prohibited | Permitted | Only for funerals or to indicate a hazardous condition. |
| New York | Prohibited | Not Specified | Strictly for stopped or disabled vehicles. |
| Illinois | Prohibited | Permitted | Allowed for funeral processions or hazardous conditions. |
Ultimately, hazard lights are a vital safety tool. Use them judiciously to communicate a real hazard, but always prioritize checking your specific state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) guidelines to ensure you're using them legally and effectively.
