Hazard lights, also known as emergency flashers, are safety tools built into every vehicle.
They help you warn other drivers of immediate danger or problems on the road.
Turning them on flashes both your left and right signal lights at the same time.
This makes your car more visible to others, especially in risky situations.
But here’s the catch: many drivers misuse hazard lights.
This can confuse other drivers and even lead to accidents.
It’s important to know exactly when to use them—and when not to.
Drivers of private cars, public utility vehicles (PUVs), motorcycles, and trucks should know the proper way to use hazard lights based on LTO guidelines and global traffic rules.
Whether you’re a new driver or someone brushing up on the rules, this is for you.
What Are Hazard Lights For?
Hazard lights warn others that your vehicle is in trouble or causing a hazard.
They help prevent further accidents by alerting drivers to slow down or steer clear.
When used properly, they can keep you—and everyone else on the road—safe.
But if you use them incorrectly, you could make things worse.
Understanding their real purpose is the first step toward safer driving.
When You SHOULD Use Hazard Lights
Let’s break it down. These are the situations when it’s right—and expected—to use your hazard lights:
1. Vehicle Breakdown
If your vehicle suddenly stops working and you can’t move it to a safer spot, turn on your hazard lights immediately.
This alerts other drivers that your car isn’t moving and they need to be cautious.
Also, set up an early warning device (EWD) behind your vehicle to give drivers extra notice.
2. Accidents
If you’re involved in a road accident and your vehicle is blocking traffic, use your hazard lights.
This warns others about the obstacle ahead and helps avoid further crashes.
Stay inside your car if it’s unsafe to get out and call for help as soon as possible.
3. Emergency Stops
If you need to pull over due to a medical emergency or because you’ve been flagged by traffic authorities, switch on your hazard lights.
It signals to other drivers that there’s a temporary stop ahead and they should approach with caution.
4. Towing Situations
When your car is being towed and moving slower than the flow of traffic, use your hazard lights.
This tells other drivers to be extra careful and patient as they pass your vehicle.
These are the main, proper uses of hazard lights.
Anything outside of these situations can be confusing—or downright dangerous.
When You Should NEVER Use Hazard Lights
Many drivers think hazard lights are multi-purpose warning signals.
But using them at the wrong time can put everyone at risk.
Here’s when you should absolutely avoid using hazard lights:
1. Driving in Heavy Rain
Some drivers turn on their hazard lights in heavy rain, thinking it helps visibility.
But it actually creates confusion.
Drivers behind you can’t tell if you’re stopping, turning, or going straight.
Instead, use your headlights and fog lights to improve visibility.
2. Driving Through Fog or Darkness
Again, headlights—not hazard lights—are the right tools here.
Hazard lights while driving make it unclear what you’re doing on the road.
3. Counterflowing or Overtaking
Some drivers use hazard lights when overtaking or driving in the wrong lane (counterflowing).
This is dangerous and misleading.
Other drivers may misinterpret your actions and cause an accident.
4. Illegal Parking or Temporary Stops
Parking illegally and turning on your hazard lights doesn’t make it legal or safe.
It can block traffic and create hazards.
Hazard lights aren’t permission to break traffic rules.
5. Weaving Through Traffic
Using hazard lights to speed through traffic jams confuses other drivers.
It’s unsafe and illegal.
Your hazard lights are not a free pass to break road rules.
Why Misusing Hazard Lights Is Dangerous
When you misuse hazard lights, you create uncertainty.
Other drivers rely on clear signals to understand what’s happening on the road.
If your hazard lights are flashing while you’re driving, they won’t know if you’re slowing down or turning.
This can lead to rear-end collisions or sideswipes.
Misuse can also delay emergency responders who rely on accurate signals to navigate safely.
In short: wrong use of hazard lights makes the road less safe for everyone.
The LTO Rules on Hazard Lights You Need to Know
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has clear rules on when and how to use hazard lights.
Here are key points to remember:
- Use hazard lights when your vehicle is stationary and poses a danger.
- Never use hazard lights while driving unless your vehicle is being towed at a slow speed.
- Always set up an early warning device behind your vehicle in case of breakdown or accident.
- In bad weather, turn on your headlights or fog lights—NOT hazard lights.
- Obey local traffic regulations on hazard light use.
These rules are aligned with the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, followed by most countries worldwide.
How to Use Hazard Lights the Right Way
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to proper hazard light usage:
- Stop in a Safe Spot
Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible.
If not, stay in your vehicle with seatbelts on. - Turn on Hazard Lights Immediately
Press the hazard light button, usually a red triangle symbol on your dashboard. - Set Up Early Warning Devices (EWDs)
Place them behind your vehicle to alert approaching drivers from a distance. - Call for Help
Contact roadside assistance or emergency services if necessary.
By following these steps, you protect yourself and everyone else on the road.
Common Myths About Hazard Lights Debunked
Myth 1: “I Should Use Hazard Lights in Heavy Rain”
Headlights or fog lights are the safer choice.
Myth 2: “Hazard Lights Help When I’m Stopping Briefly”
Use hazard lights only when there’s real danger.
Myth 3: “Hazard Lights Make Illegal Parking Okay”
Definitely not. It’s still illegal and unsafe.
Why Drivers Get It Wrong (And How You Can Get It Right)
Many drivers learn bad habits from watching others.
Others misunderstand the purpose of hazard lights.
And some just don’t know the rules.
But you’re here now—and you’re learning.
By using hazard lights the right way, you set an example for other drivers.
You help make roads safer for everyone.
And that’s a big win.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use hazard lights when waiting for someone by the roadside?
No. This is not a valid reason to use hazard lights. It can confuse other drivers and create unnecessary risks. Park safely and avoid obstructing traffic.
2. Should I use hazard lights if my car battery dies while on the road?
If your battery dies and your hazard lights work, turn them on while waiting for help. If they don’t work, use your EWDs immediately and stay visible.
3. Are hazard lights required when changing a flat tire on the roadside?
Yes. Turn on hazard lights and set up EWDs to alert others that your vehicle is stationary and you’re performing repairs.
4. Is it okay to use hazard lights during a funeral procession?
No. There’s no regulation requiring or allowing hazard light use for funeral processions. Use headlights instead if part of a convoy.
Video: ALAMIN: Ang wastong paggamit ng hazard light
Proper use of hazard lights is important for every driver’s safety on the road.
They are used in situations that require immediate attention, such as accidents or vehicle breakdowns.
When stopping in a place that may pose a risk, hazard lights serve as a warning to others.
They should not be used while driving in rain or dense fog.
Instead, fog lights should be used to avoid confusing other drivers.
It is also not appropriate to use them in regular traffic as a signal for stopping or turning.
Using hazard lights correctly helps maintain the safety of everyone on the road.
Conclusion
Hazard lights save lives—but only when used correctly. As a responsible driver, you have the power to make the roads safer.
Stick to the rules.
Educate your family and friends.
And remember: clarity and caution are key to keeping everyone safe.