Flashing Your Headlights

[Mandator]

Originally Posted by G-CPTN

I still get acknowledgement (double actuation of tail lamps or hazard flashers) from HGV drivers that I flash after they have overtaken me (mainly non-UK trucks - ie Irish - and PSVs).

Nice to know the tradition isn't quite dead then!

Chris

[G-CPTN]

I mention the 'non-UK' facet as most UK trucks are governed to 56mph - those overtaking me would be over 60mph . . .

[coastie]

Originally Posted by Mandator

Nice to know the tradition isn't quite dead then!

Chris

It happens to me most of the time, either I flash to let them know they're clear to pull in, (something my Uncle taught me) or I put on the indicators for either side if a wagon has flashed to let me know that I am clear to pull in.

[robertdavey6]

Originally Posted by Mandator

Nice to know the tradition isn't quite dead then!

Chris

Not quite dead but, I would say dying. From Leicester (J22) up the M1 to Barnsley/Wakefield (J38) I think only about 50% of the vehicles I overtook, flashed me back in.
I did wonder if some of the ones that don't flash, are immigrants from Eastern Europe and that maybe, they didn't do it at home.

[G-CPTN]

Or maybe the instructors are advising against such behaviour?

[Pat Bourke]

When I drove in the US of A it was the done thing to flash other truckers. If you did'nt you would hear all about it on the CB. Some states more than others. It certainly was very helpful when driving in very bad weather and traffic was heavy.
Pat.

___________________
Former T Cab Driver

[Matthew93]

I'm now learning for my theory test and I found this about flashing your headlights (information is from "The Official DSA Theory Test for Car Drivers and The Official Highway Code" PC/CD)

What do I do if I'm travelling at the speed limit and a driver comes up behind flashing their headlights or trying to overtake?

Keep a steady course and allow them to overtake. Don't try to stop them, they could become more frustrated.

I'm never too sure when I should flash my headlights.

Only flash your headlights to show other road users you're there. It's not a signal to show priority or impatience, nor to greet others.

[robertdavey6]

Quote:
I'm never too sure when I should flash my headlights.

Only flash your headlights to show other road users you're there. It's not a signal to show priority or impatience, nor to greet others.

Exactly. I am here and you are there. Therefore, it is safe for you to return to the nearside lane. It's almost as if it is saying you should flash your headlights when you have been overtaken.

[G-CPTN]

On the other hand, what signal(s) would you use to indicate that the overtaking vehicle had 'cut you up'?

[coastie]

Hand signals!!