How to correctly use hazard lights in your car

As per the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) data, India reported 480,583 road accidents in 2023, resulting in close to 172,890 deaths, or over 470 lives lost each day, and 462,825 injuries. These were mainly caused by intentional, avoidable acts like overspeeding and wrong-side driving, and to curb these, MoRTH stated that “citizens must be made aware of the importance of road safety to instil responsible behaviour and a sense of shared responsibility on our roads”. 

One way of being a part of this extremely important initiative is by correctly using hazard/ emergency lights of your car, which are often misunderstood or misused. The blinking of all indicators together is enabled via a button marked usually with a red triangle (pictured above), to make it easier for other road users to notice the vehicle in question. As the timing to use this safety feature is crucial, let us consider: a) when, and b) when not to.

When to turn on hazard lights

1. Mechanical breakdown, flat tyre

If your car breaks down or has a flat tyre, switch on the hazard lights right away. These flashing lights tell other drivers that your car has a problem. It helps them notice your vehicle from a distance, slow down and pass safely. When parked on the side of the road, hazard lights also warn other drivers that your car is stationary.

2. Post an accident

When a car ends up blocking part of the road after an accident or due to debris, turning on the hazard lights helps warn others to slow down and steer clear. The warning lights make your vehicle more visible and give approaching drivers enough time to react safely.

3. While being towed away

While a vehicle is being towed, keeping the hazard lights on makes it easier for other drivers to spot it and realise it isn't moving under its own power. This helps them keep a safe distance and drive more carefully around it.

When not to use hazard lights    

1. Fog or low visibility conditions

A common mistake drivers make in fog, rain or low visibility is turning on the car's hazard lights. This doesn't actually make the car easier to see, as it can confuse others about whether you are stationary or moving. It is ideal to use fog lamps and headlights (in low beam setting) so that other drivers can judge your position and direction.

2. Tunnels

Driving through a tunnel does not require using your hazard lights, as it is not an emergency situation. In fact, keeping them on can confuse drivers further behind, who might assume your car has stopped or broken down. Just use your headlights to maintain clear visibility and let others see you easily.

Also see:

Top winter car driving tips

Top 10 most affordable ADAS cars in India

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