It’s a gesture many of us make without thinking — a quick flash of the headlights to say “thanks” or to warn fellow drivers of a speed trap ahead. But what feels like harmless courtesy could actually be a costly mistake, costing you £1000 driving fine. Now might be the time to rethink how we show politeness on the road — because even good intentions can come with legal consequences these days.
A Costly Courtesy On UK Roads
It’s something most drivers do without a second thought — a quick flash of the headlights to say “thank you,” or to warn others of a speed trap ahead. But what many motorists don’t realise is that this seemingly polite gesture could land them with a £1000 driving fine, according to the Highway Code and the Police Act 1997.
Flashing your headlights for any reason other than to alert other road users of your presence is technically illegal. Rule 110 and 111 of the Highway Code clearly state: “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”.
Obstructing Police Duty: The Legal Backlash
E1The issue becomes even more serious when drivers flash their lights to warn others of speed cameras or police speed checks. This act, while often seen as courteous, is considered a breach of Section 89 of the Police Act 1997, which prohibits “wilfully obstructing a constable in the execution of their duty”, says This Is Money.
In rare cases, this could result in a criminal conviction and a maximum £1000 driving fine. Back in 2012, Lancashire Police fined 20 motorists £30 each for “misuse of headlights” during a crackdown on the Fylde Coast. PC Antony Gray from the road policing unit said the practice was “exacerbating the problem” of speeding.
Misuse Of Lights: More Than Just Headlights
It’s not just headlights that can get you into trouble. Flashing hazard lights to say “thank you” is also a breach of Rule 116, which states that hazard lights must only be used when warning drivers of a hazard or obstruction ahead — and only on motorways or unrestricted dual carriageways.
Even waving to acknowledge another driver’s courtesy could be risky. Rule 160 advises drivers to keep both hands on the wheel at all times. A quick wave or thumbs-up could be interpreted as momentarily losing control of the vehicle — and yes, that too could result in a £1000 driving fine and three penalty points.
Survey Reveals Widespread Risk
A study by Regtransfers found that 58.3% of UK drivers wave to say thank you, while 13.3% flash their hazard lights, and 24.8% do either. That means a majority of motorists could be unknowingly breaching the Highway Code every day.
Mark Trimbee, CEO of Regtransfers, warned: “It might seem like you’re being friendly, but taking your hand off the wheel to say thank you, even for a moment, poses a potential risk to you and other road users.”
What The Experts Say
The AA advises motorists to stick strictly to the Highway Code: “You’re not supposed to flash your lights to send any other message — even to warn others of hazards in the road,” the organisation states.
Julie Daniels from Compare the Market adds: “Being a courteous driver is about showing consideration and patience to others on the road. Small acts of kindness can help — but only if they’re done safely and legally”.
Final Thoughts
While the chances of being hit with a £1000 driving fine for a friendly gesture are slim, the risk is real. The £1000 driving fine isn’t just a theoretical penalty — it’s backed by legislation and has been enforced in the past. So next time you reach for the headlight switch or raise a hand in thanks, consider whether it’s worth the potential cost.
Being polite on the road is always encouraged — but it’s best done with a nod, a smile, or simply safe driving. Because in today’s motoring landscape, even good manners can come with a price tag.
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