In Houston, drivers are rarely on the same page, including when it comes to deciding when to use their hazard lights.
Hazard lights, sometimes referred to as flashers or emergency lights, are red flashing lights on the back of a vehicle typically used to indicate a driver is stopped or unexpectedly slowing down due to traffic.
Here’s what you need to know about using hazard lights on the road.
When should you turn on your hazard lights?
Drivers should use their hazard lights in accordance with state law, said Sgt. Richard Standifer with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
According to state law , hazard lights should be used in the following situations:
- When a vehicle is legally parked in an urban district
- When a vehicle is legally stopped to pick up or drop off a passenger
- A vehicle is stopped to avoid conflict with other traffic
- A vehicle is stopped to comply with the direction of a police officer or an official traffic-control device
Drivers are also encouraged to use their hazard lights when pulled over on the side of the road, Standifer said. This includes when performing vehicular maintenance like changing a flat tire or when pulled over to check a map, he said.