re: Why do people use their emergency flashers when it’s raining?

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Why, oh why do drivers turn on their flashers during a storm? Do they think it enhances their visibility? Do they think they are emitting a safety alert? Do they think they are erecting a force field around their car that will prevent them from being rear-ended?

They would be wrong on all counts. In fact, hazard lights worsen the danger of driving in a downpour. Driving with your hazard lights on is also illegal in Florida — and in most states —punishable by a $129 fine. The only time you can use them when in motion is if the vehicle is in a funeral procession.

“Hazard lights are just that — the signal of a hazard, and you use them when you have pulled over to the side of the road or are disabled or in an accident,” said Matt Nasworthy, American Automobile Association public affairs director for Florida. “You cannot use them when you’re moving. It only causes confusion. Other drivers have no idea what you’re doing.”

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Flashing hazard lights actually reduce visibility, making it difficult for other drivers to see your turn signal or brake lights or causing them to think you are stopped or stalled in the roadway.

“If your lights are indicating some kind of emergency, the drivers following you don’t know whether to slam on the brakes or swerve around you,” Nasworthy said. “You may think you’re being cautious but you’ve misinterpreted the purpose of hazard lights.”

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