Drivers have been warned that a common driving habit could lead to fines and penalty points for breaching major Highway Code rules.
Flashing headlights to communicate with other drivers, such as letting someone out at a junction, saying thank you, or warning about speed cameras, may seem polite, but it can break the rules and result in a £200 fine.
Many motorists carry out the action without thinking, believing it is a normal and friendly part of driving. However, experts warned that it is often misunderstood and could result in financial penalties.
According to the Highway Code, drivers should only flash their headlights to make others aware of their presence, and using them for any other reason could be seen as improper use.
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Rule 110 states: "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."
Meanwhile, Rule 111 details how drivers should never assume that flashing headlights is a signal inviting them to proceed.
Neil Atkinson, owner of Carrosserie, explained how the behaviour of flashing headlights has become routine for drivers across the country.
He said: "Flashing your headlights has become second nature for a lot of drivers in the UK, and many see it as a courteous gesture.
Rule 110 states that drivers cannot flash their headlights to convey messages to other drivers | PA/GETTY"But in reality, it's often misunderstood. The Highway Code is very clear that headlights should only be used to let other road users know you're there, not to communicate messages or instructions."
If a driver is judged to have misused their headlights, they could face a fine ranging from £100 to £200, as well as between three and six penalty points on their licence, depending on the circumstances.
Mr Atkinson warned that many motorists remain unaware of how serious the consequences of headlight misuse can be on the roads.
"What seems like a harmless action, such as signalling another driver to exit a junction or acknowledging their courtesy, could expose motorists to penalties," he said.
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Headlight glare can cause drivers to lose focus while travelling on roads | GETTYThe risks increase further when drivers use their headlights to warn others about police activity, such as speed checks or roadside operations.
In these cases, motorists could be accused of interfering with law enforcement, which carries much tougher penalties.
Drivers found to be flashing their lights to alert others about police presence could face prosecution for "wilfully obstructing a constable", which can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Experts warned drivers of the impact headlight glare has on UK roads | PAMr Atkinson said: "A lot of drivers don't realise that trying to warn others about police activity could actually be seen as interfering with law enforcement.
"It might feel like you're helping someone, but you could actually be committing an offence."
Motoring experts have now urged drivers to follow the rules closely and avoid using headlights as a form of communication altogether.