What lights should be displayed for temporary parking?
3 Answers
Temporary parking requires the use of hazard warning flashers; other lights do not need to be turned on. Below is an introduction to the use of lights: High beams: When meeting another vehicle on a road without a central divider or center line, high beams should not be used within 150 meters of the oncoming vehicle; when meeting non-motorized vehicles on narrow bridges or roads without a central divider or center line, high beams should not be used. Low beams: Low beams are designed for close-range illumination, with a wide coverage of approximately 160 degrees, a short illumination distance, and non-adjustable focus. When driving at night without streetlights, under poor lighting conditions, or in low visibility situations such as fog, rain, snow, dust, or hail, and when following another vehicle closely in the same direction, low beams should be used.
I've been driving for many years, and it's absolutely essential to turn on the hazard warning lights, also known as the double flashers, when making a temporary stop. This significantly enhances safety, especially when parking on the roadside or in heavy traffic, like waiting for someone for five minutes or unloading items. Once the double flashers are on, vehicles behind can slow down in advance to avoid rear-end collisions. There was a time I stopped on the highway without turning them on and nearly had an accident. Since then, I've made it a habit: press the red triangle button on the center console to activate the lights, keeping them on for five to ten minutes—not too long, or the battery might drain. By the way, using double flashers in rain or fog is even more useful, as it improves visibility and prevents accidents. Regularly check the lights to ensure they're functioning properly. In short, safety comes first—don't skip the lights for convenience.
As a frequent driver, I always turn on the hazard lights immediately when making a temporary stop. I remember one time when I was parked on a city street waiting for someone without the lights on, and a motorcycle barely missed me—fortunately, nothing happened, but it was a profound lesson. Now, for brief stops like grabbing coffee or taking a call, pressing the hazard light switch for a few seconds does the trick, making both front and rear lights flash to alert others. Don’t confuse it with parking lights, which stay steadily lit and pose a greater hazard. In rainy or foggy conditions, using hazard lights while driving is even more important to enhance visibility. A quick tip for battery concerns: just turn off the hazard lights within ten minutes during a temporary stop. Making it a habit is simple and can save you from potential dangers. This advice applies to all vehicle models, whether new or old—always stay mindful.