Headlight flasher - the dangers of incorrect use

Permitted use of headlight flasher

According to § 16 paragraph 1 of the German Road Traffic Act (StVO), the use of headlight flashers is permitted in two specific situations:

1. Warning of danger: If you or other road users find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation, you may warn them by briefly flashing your headlights. Examples of this include pointing out a sudden obstacle on the road or warning an oncoming vehicle whose lights are not on. 2. Announcing an overtaking maneuver outside built-up areas: Outside built-up areas, it is permitted to announce an overtaking maneuver using short acoustic or illuminated signals. However, you must ensure that oncoming road users are not blinded.

Improper use of headlight flasher

The use of headlight flashers outside of the situations mentioned is prohibited. For example, it is not permitted to use headlight flashers to give way to other road users or to alert them to speed checks, according to the ADAC in an online article. Likewise, the use of headlight flashers within built-up areas to announce an overtaking maneuver is not permitted.

Legal consequences of misuse

Unauthorized use of the headlight flasher can be punished as an administrative offence. If the headlight flasher is used improperly, a fine of five euros is imposed. If this results in annoyance or blinding of other road users, the fine increases to ten euros.

In serious cases, the improper use of the headlight flasher can be considered coercion in accordance with Section 240 of the Criminal Code (StGB). This is particularly the case if other road users are harassed by tailgating and repeatedly using the headlight flasher in order to force them to change lanes or accelerate. The penalties for this can range from fines and points on the driver's license to prison sentences of up to three years.

Recommendations for the safe use of the headlight flasher

In order to avoid legal consequences and to ensure road safety, the headlight flasher should only be used in situations where this is permitted by law, as the ADAC further reports. When announcing an overtaking maneuver, care must be taken to ensure that the required safety distance from the vehicle in front is maintained and that oncoming road users are not blinded. In addition, the signal should always be used moderately and only for as long as necessary.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the headlight flasher is a useful tool for communication in traffic, but its improper use can lead to legal sanctions. Conscious and responsible use contributes to the safety of all road users.

editorial team of finanzen.net