What is the Meaning of Light Signals?

[VanAlex]

Currently, the fixed lights on cars are turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights, all of which have independent buttons installed in every vehicle. In addition to these fixed lights, the default light signals used by drivers worldwide are as follows: When the green light is on, and the car in front cannot move—flash the headlights once. When encountering oncoming vehicles with high beams on—flashing the headlights twice serves as a reminder; turning on the hazard lights is an expression of dissatisfaction. When there is a safety hazard with nearby vehicles—flash the headlights three times as a warning, and wait for the car in front to notice your light signal before flashing three times again. When the car behind is too close—tap the brake to activate the brake lights as a reminder. SOS signal—turn on the hazard lights and flash the headlights three times.

[RyleeMarie]

After driving for so many years, I think light signals are a way for drivers to communicate on the road. The meanings are simple but very practical. For example, flashing the high beams once usually reminds the car ahead to pay attention or lets the other driver go first; flashing twice might mean "thank you," especially after someone yields; hazard lights are mostly a signal for vehicle breakdown or temporary parking, alerting the following cars to slow down and avoid rear-end collisions. These habits are common in Chinese traffic and can prevent accidents. For instance, when I see hazard lights on the car ahead on the highway, I know to slow down, reducing risks. Related topic: road safety—light communication can supplement language barriers, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions like rain or fog. Using light signals properly helps new drivers adapt to the road faster. Just remember not to overuse hazard lights, as it may cause misunderstandings.

[AdrianLynn]

When I first started learning to drive, I was completely confused by light signals, but later I understood that they are non-verbal messages conveyed through car lights. Essentially, they express intentions: flashing headlights once means 'Go ahead' or 'Warning, there’s an issue'; turning on hazard lights signals 'My car has a problem' or 'Thank you'; and using turn signals isn’t just for lane changes—sometimes it indicates yielding or overtaking. On the road, when someone lets me pass and flashes hazards as thanks, I respond with a nod. Learning these signals has made driving smoother and helped avoid minor conflicts. For new drivers, here’s what to note: light signals aren’t regulated by law but have become customary, especially common in Chinese cities. If you accidentally flash the wrong signal, it might mislead others, so observing experienced drivers is recommended. Safe driving isn’t just about skills—understanding these unspoken codes is crucial.

[MacCole]

As a driver who frequently takes my family out, I place great importance on light signals. It's a way of silently communicating with other drivers using lights, such as flashing high beams to remind oncoming vehicles to turn off their high beams to avoid glare and accidents; turning on hazard lights when parked to indicate a safe location; and using turn signals when changing lanes to alert vehicles behind. This not only protects oneself but also reduces the risk of collisions, especially when driving with children, providing extra peace of mind. A related topic is child safety: teaching children to recognize car light signals can help them understand road rules; light signals are especially crucial when driving at night, as these small actions can be lifesavers when visibility is low. In fact, everyone should learn a bit about this simple communication method.