Drivers are being warned that a common on-road gesture could land them with a fine of up to £1,000.
Flashing headlights, often used to communicate with other motorists, is widely seen as a courteous way to let someone know they can proceed at a junction or merge into traffic.
However, experts at Quotezone.co.uk are reminding drivers that this gesture could be breaking the Highway Code if used for anything other than signalling your presence.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone, said: "Flashing headlights is often seen as a courteous gesture, but it’s important for drivers to remember that misuse can have serious consequences.
"Flashing headlights to signal other drivers to proceed, warn of speed cameras, or communicate any other message can be misinterpreted and lead to confusion on the road.
"Not only can this be dangerous, but it could land drivers with a hefty fine of up to £1,000.
"It’s crucial that motorists stick to the intended use of headlights — to simply make other road users aware of their presence — so they don’t inadvertently break the law or risk their safety this winter."
The Highway Code is clear on the matter.
Rule 110 states that drivers should only flash their headlights to let others know they are there, and not to convey any other message or intimidate road users.
Rule 111 advises drivers never to assume that flashing headlights is an invitation to proceed, and to use their own judgement before moving.
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Misusing headlights to warn of speed cameras or police activity could also breach Section 89(2) of the Police Act 1996, which prohibits obstructing a constable in the execution of their duty.
While there is no specific fine solely for improper use of headlights, violations of the Highway Code can result in penalties of up to £1,000.
Drivers are being urged to avoid using their headlights for any purpose other than to alert others to their presence on the road.
There are also safety risks associated with the gesture.
So-called 'flash-for-cash' scams involve criminals flashing their headlights to encourage a driver to pull out at a junction, only to deliberately cause a collision and make fraudulent insurance claims for damage and injury.
While many see the gesture as friendly or helpful, it can easily be misinterpreted and lead to dangerous situations or legal trouble.
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