Will I Get Penalty Points for Using Hazard Lights While Driving?

[OIker]

Using hazard lights while driving under inappropriate circumstances constitutes a traffic violation, specifically the improper use of vehicle lights, which carries a penalty of 1 demerit point. The following situations permit the use of hazard lights: Traffic accidents: When involved in a traffic accident and the vehicle cannot be moved to a safe area, it is necessary to activate the hazard lights. Additionally, a warning triangle should be placed behind the vehicle to alert oncoming traffic, followed by calling the police and awaiting assistance. Vehicle breakdown: If the vehicle experiences a special circumstance that renders it immobile and is awaiting assistance, remember to turn on the hazard lights to alert passing vehicles that the car is in an abnormal state. Specially authorized vehicles: Vehicles that have received special permission from the traffic police department are allowed to use hazard lights.

[MartinMarie]

Using hazard lights while driving depends on the situation. If the vehicle has a malfunction or is involved in an accident requiring an emergency stop, turning on the hazard lights is completely legal, and the police won’t deduct points. However, if there’s no valid reason—such as using them during traffic jams or arbitrarily flashing them on the road—that’s not allowed. Traffic regulations state that such misuse is considered an obstruction to other vehicles, as hazard lights are meant to warn of danger, not serve as everyday lighting. If caught, it typically results in a 1-point deduction and a fine of around 100 to 200 yuan. I once heard about a friend who unnecessarily turned on his hazard lights on the highway and was pulled over by traffic police for a warning—after that, he only used them when parked. To avoid trouble, I recommend using hazard lights only in genuinely dangerous situations, not for convenience at the expense of traffic flow. During normal driving, it’s best to stick to turn signals or brake lights as required by regulations.

[LaAriana]

From my driving experience, using hazard lights without reason can easily lead to penalty points. I remember last year when I was driving out of town, I turned on my hazard lights shortly after exiting the highway, thinking it would be safer, but I was immediately noticed by a nearby traffic officer who warned me that this was a violation. The rules are clear: hazard lights should only be used in cases of vehicle breakdown, accident stops, or poor visibility due to severe weather. Misusing them can mislead other drivers and increase the risk of rear-end collisions. The penalty varies by enforcement—some places deduct 1 point on the spot and impose a fine of over 100 yuan. I’ve seen many beginners unaware of this rule, thinking hazard lights can be used freely, only to suffer the consequences. In short, my habit is to use hazard lights only when absolutely necessary and turn them off otherwise. Developing good habits helps avoid fines and safety issues.

[LailaDella]

Using hazard lights improperly while driving can result in penalty points. Hazard lights are designed as emergency signals, and using them without reason disrupts traffic order. If caught by police, you may receive a 1-point deduction and a fine. I personally experienced this—using hazard lights under normal road conditions was pointed out as unsafe behavior. Remember to only use them when parked due to breakdown or in low visibility conditions. Otherwise, avoid touching them to prevent trouble.

[IsabelaLee]

I think this matter needs to be clarified. Using hazard lights while driving must comply with regulations. According to traffic laws, unnecessarily activating hazard lights while the vehicle is in motion is a violation because it can confuse other drivers and create accident risks. If caught, penalty points are a common punishment, typically deducting 1 point, and the fine amount varies by region. I personally have experience with using hazard lights when parked being understood, but when moving, turn signals should be used instead. Safety comes first, so don’t abuse hazard lights—activate them only in emergencies.

[VonEdward]

Using hazard lights while driving may result in penalty points. Hazard lights are originally intended to indicate a stopped or malfunctioning vehicle. If activated during normal driving, it will be considered as misuse. Traffic regulations state that this violates safe driving practices, and police typically impose a 1-point deduction and a fine ranging from 100 to 200 yuan upon detection. I've heard many people mistakenly believe hazard lights allow them to park anywhere, which is a major misunderstanding; they should only be used in case of vehicle malfunction or when parked. I always avoid this situation while driving myself, and remembering this can help avoid tickets.