Flashing your headlights: is it legal?
Have you ever flashed your headlights at oncoming vehicles to let them know there’s a traffic hazard or even a police car or hidden speed camera up ahead?
While you might think you’re helping your fellow driver, it could land you with a fine, particularly in some Australian states or territories.
For example, in the ACT there’s an explicit law stating it’s illegal to flash your headlights to warn other road users of police. However, you can flash your headlights to let drivers know of other hazards such as a major collision or livestock blocking the road.
Headlight rules in South Australia
In South Australia the rules are slightly more open to interpretation.
While there isn’t a specific penalty for a driver who helps another motorist avoid speed cameras or even RBTs, there is an Australian road rule stating drivers must not use their headlights on high beam if they’re less than 200m behind a vehicle travelling in the same direction, or less than 200m from an oncoming vehicle.
It’s also an offence to “dazzle” another driver with a light that’s fitted to, or in, your vehicle.
The fine for using your high beams when not permitted or dazzling other road users: $291, plus a $102 Victims of Crime Levy and one demerit point.
A warning about flashing your headlights
RAA Senior Manager of Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain says drivers need to consider the risks before flashing their high beams to warn of hazards.
“While there’s the monetary risk when flashing your lights to warn other drivers, you also want to be careful not to dazzle fellow motorists,” Charles says.
“This could potentially cause a crash. If you’re going to flash your lights to warn another driver, consider your proximity to cars in front and behind, as well as how bright your high beams could be, particularly at night.”