The legality of flashing high beams in South Carolina is a topic of interest for many drivers. The state’s approach to this issue isn’t entirely straightforward, but an understanding of the relevant laws can help clarify the situation for motorists.
In South Carolina, the general rules governing the use of headlights are outlined in the state’s traffic laws. These laws dictate that headlights must be used from sunset to sunrise and during conditions of reduced visibility such as rain, fog, or when visibility is less than 500 feet. However, when it comes to the specific act of flashing high beams, the laws become more nuanced.
According to South Carolina Code 56-5-4830, flashing lights are generally prohibited except on authorized emergency vehicles, school buses, snow-removal equipment, or vehicles using them to indicate a turn or the presence of a vehicular traffic hazard. This regulation suggests that the use of flashing high beams for reasons other than signaling a turn or warning of a hazard might not be legally supported.