It has been a big discussion on social media: motorists who use their hazard lights while driving in the rain.
In Florida, it is illegal to drive with your hazard lights. Hazards lights are for stopped vehicles only, officials say. The one situation where Florida drivers are allowed to use their hazards when in motion is when the vehicle is being used in a funeral procession .
An FHP spokesperson said that flashers are for emergency situations. “First responders look for flashers to see if someone needs help.”
Law enforcement officials say hazard lights can actually reduce visibility making other drivers think you are stopped or stalled.
Other drivers say flashers make it difficult to see when a motorist is tapping the brakes or using a turn signal.
The FHP spokesperson says if visibility is so bad that you cannot see, pull over in a parking lot, plaza or somewhere safe until conditions improve.
Florida has a high number of out of state drivers that may not know this law or believe it is acceptable or even helpful to drive with hazard lights on in the rain. If you are one of these drivers or know someone who does this please let them know it is not only illegal according to Florida Statute 316.2397, but its also dangerous.
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