DRIVERS could be fined a whopping £1,000 just for flashing their lights, according to a new Highway Code rule.
Motorists are being urged to familiarise themselves with Rules 110 and 111 – which could leave Brits with a hefty fine if not followed properly.
Updated earlier this year, the rules now state drivers can only flash their headlights in specific circumstances.
It states: “Only flash your headlights to let other road users know that you are there.
“Do not flash your headlights to convey any other message or intimidate other road users.”
It adds: “Never assume that flashing headlights is a signal inviting you to proceed. Use your own judgement and proceed carefully.”
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However, drivers may be fined up to £1,000 for using their headlights in another way.
Section 89 of the Police Act 1997 says that motorists may be hit with the vast cash penalty or even be taken to court if they obstruct police from their duty.
It says: “Any person who resists or wilfully obstructs a constable in the execution of his duty, or a person assisting a constable in the execution of his duty, shall be guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one month or to a fine not exceeding level three on the standard scale, or to both.”
Research from the RAC reveals that nine in 10 drivers in the UK think some or most headlights are too bright.
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The majority of people surveyed said they often get dazzled when driving.
The data also suggests that the situation seems to be getting worse, with 63 per cent of drivers saying it’s happening more now than a year of two ago.
One in four claim that they are now dazzled more frequently and one in 10 motorists said it took over six seconds for them to regain their sight after being dazzled.
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Rod Dennis, RAC spokesperson, said: “If they’re not angled properly – or the driver in the oncoming car has forgotten to dip their headlights – there’s every chance you’re going to get blinded.
“Modern LED headlight technology may also have a part to play as the human eye reacts to the so-called ‘blue light’ from LEDs differently to the ‘yellow light’ of conventional halogen headlights.”